For many Australians, remote work has become the standard practice since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond. While this has brought about a new level of flexibility and convenience, it has also resulted in unique challenges for those living in strata communities. In this blog, we’ll discuss six ways your strata community can support work-from-home.
Communication is key
Communication is the cornerstone of any successful strata community. Ensuring that all residents are well-informed and regularly updated regarding any modifications that could affect their work-from-home arrangements is crucial. Regular newsletters, emails, or community meetings serve as an excellent means to keep everyone informed and involved and ensure that all residents feel heard.
If you have scheduled maintenance works, for example, and the noise may distract people who work from home, let them know so they can make other arrangements if necessary.
Promote a positive work-life balance
The distinction between work and personal life can often become blurred when working from home. Encourage residents to create a designated workspace and set clear boundaries to help maintain a healthy work-life balance. Consider setting guidelines for noise levels and office hours to minimise distractions and promote productivity.
Some strata buildings may even consider setting up an unused common space that’s designed for at-home workers. Similar to a co-working space, this can be a huge drawcard for buyers and tenants alike.
Provide access to resources and amenities
Having access to high-speed internet, printing facilities, and meeting rooms are essential for those working from home. Consider investing in shared resources and amenities to support your residents’ work needs. This will help ensure that they can work productively and efficiently from home.
Encourage regular breaks and physical activity
Spending extended durations seated in front of a computer screen can also be detrimental to people’s health. Encourage your residents to take regular breaks and incorporate physical activity into their daily routines. This is much easier for buildings that already include gym facilities, but you could consider arranging a reduced-fee deal with a local gym for residents also.
Support mental health
The recent pandemic has had a substantial impact on mental health, and working from home can exacerbate feelings of isolation and loneliness. While we’re past the worst of it now, a lot of employers have closed their offices in favour of a complete working-from-home setup. As a result, many people have struggled to adjust, and they likely miss certain aspects of working in an office. Encourage residents to connect with each other virtually, promote self-care activities, and provide access to mental health resources. This will help ensure that everyone in your strata community feels supported and cared for.
Need professional strata management services?
Managing a strata community can be challenging, particularly when it comes to supporting residents working from home. Consider seeking professional guidance from strata management experts like More Than Strata. We can provide you with the tools and resources you need to manage your strata community effectively and support your residents in their work-from-home arrangements. If you’d like to find out how we can assist with all aspects of strata management, please contact us today.
