ORTO Becomes a Trend in the US: See 5 Ways to Welcome Your Employees during this Period
With office return orders gaining ground, companies seek strategies to improve employee experience, and catering might be a key ally!
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Business Blog
According to a Pew Research Center study, about 75% of American workers were required to be in the office a certain number of days per week or month by October 2024, up from 63% in February 2023.
However, not everyone is on board. A significant portion of the workforce resists the return, with many considering quitting or advocating for hybrid models. As companies navigate this complex scenario, one question arises: how to make employees feel welcomed and valued during this transition?
Here are five smart ways to foster a more welcoming and engaging office environment — and why catering might be more strategic than you think.
1. Offer Regular Catering to Promote Connection
Food brings people together. Companies that provide catering options in the office can create a natural moment of interaction and engagement among colleagues. Shared meals can help reduce stress, enhance team bonding, and improve overall satisfaction.
Brands like ORTO, which specialize in fresh, nutritious office meals, have seen demand rise in cities like New York and San Francisco.
2. Create Welcoming and Flexible Workspaces
Beyond desks and chairs, employees crave a sense of belonging. Offering cozy lounges, collaborative areas, and spaces for quiet work can significantly boost morale.
A well-designed environment signals that the company cares about employee comfort and productivity.
3. Personalize the Onboarding Experience
Whether for new hires or returning employees, onboarding is a crucial moment to create a connection. Personalized welcome kits, informal meet-and-greets, and mentorship programs can ease the return and help rebuild team cohesion.
4. Invest in Mental Health Support
The post-pandemic world amplified the importance of mental health. Offering access to therapy sessions, mindfulness programs, and flexible hours are some of the ways companies are supporting their teams during this return-to-office push.
5. Celebrate Milestones and Small Wins
Recognition fuels motivation. From birthdays to project completions, celebrating milestones reinforces a sense of community. Beyond shout-outs, pair celebrations with tangible tokens of appreciation, such as personalized or commemorative items, to make recognition more memorable for employees. Consider hosting regular in-office gatherings — and yes, include catering to make the event more festive and inclusive.
As the US redefines its work culture, the return-to-office movement is no longer just about presence — it’s about experience. The companies that understand this are not just enforcing policies; they are crafting environments where employees feel seen, valued, and, above all, welcome.
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