Karl Bennett is the Wellbeing Director at Perkbox and Chair of EPEA
Up until 2025, “return to office” (RTO), was a movement that was mostly confined by certain big names in their respective industries, such as Goldman Sachs and JP Morgan. For the first time in history, this change is being felt more widely. Many businesses have increased their office requirements to at least three days per week. Many businesses are adopting incentives to encourage workers to return to the office, while also boosting morale. These practices, such as office socials, are well-intentioned, but they can unintentionally exclude a large number of workers.
Employee Appreciation day is a great opportunity to reflect upon how businesses support and engage their employees in an ever-changing landscape. Returning to the office can be a great opportunity for social interaction and collaboration. It also helps employees separate work from home. Others, however, may find it difficult to return due to caregiving responsibilities, mental health issues, or disabilities. Businesses that value their team members must prioritize inclusivity when it comes to workplace engagement, and make sure their RTO initiatives do not leave anyone behind.
Re-examining social media policies
Many businesses and employees have used social media platforms, such as LinkedIn, to publicize and celebrate their return to the office. Images of groups bonding together over coffee or at social events are used to promote positivity. They can send a message that is not intended. They may make employees feel left out if they are not able to attend these moments, due to logistical or personal challenges. This can create a feeling of exclusion, rather than belonging.
Companies should instead consider how they portray their workplace culture online. They must ensure that the celebration of in-person achievements does not alienate those not present. By sharing stories of success from different locations, companies can highlight the contributions made by remote and hybrid workers.
Rethinking milestones
Shared celebrations are a great way to reinforce company culture. This could be a summer party or a business anniversary. Or it could be an awards ceremony. These large social gatherings can be difficult for employees who are neurodivergent, don’t consume alcohol or prefer another form of recognition.
Organisations must rethink how they celebrate key milestones in order to foster an inclusive culture. Alternative ways of celebrating can include virtual recognition events or personalised gifts. Or, you could offer experiences that are tailored to the preferences of different employees. Businesses can send a strong message by including everyone in celebrations at the workplace. Not just those who enjoy traditional social events.
Culture goes beyond proximity
Strong workplace cultures are about more than just physical proximity. The foundation of a strong workplace culture is built on shared values and relationships. It also relies heavily on the sense of belonging employees have within an organization. It is true that being in the office helps cultivate connections, but it’s not the only way to do so.
Companies should invest in initiatives to support culture outside the office. You can do this by promoting informal check-ins among colleagues regardless of their location, or through virtual team building activities, cross-functional opportunities for collaboration, and even encouraging informal checks-in between colleagues. To achieve long-term success, it is important to ensure that hybrid and remote employees feel as valued and engaged as their office counterparts.
An employee appreciation strategy that is future-proof
Businesses have a duty to make sure that no employee falls behind as we navigate through this new work era. Employee appreciation in 2025 should not be restricted to those who fall neatly within an RTO framework. It must include all employees and recognise the different ways people contribute to their workplace.
Organisations can create a truly inclusive workplace by re-evaluating social media policies, reassessing the celebration of milestones, and broadening their definition of work culture. A motivated and engaged workforce is essential to the success of any business. Let’s make this Employee Appreciation day more than a token of appreciation. Make it a cultural practice.
The original version of this article Return to work: How to make sure no employee is forgotten appeared first on Human Resources News.
