Life and work after Covid: How’s it going for you?

Hard to believe as it is, it’s nearly two years since the easing of the lockdown restrictions. Back then, while some embraced the idea of being able to get back to the office, many weren’t so sure. It was hard to predict whether things would go back to the way they were before Covid or whether we were at the beginning of a new normal. So two years on, how do you feel about work? 

The stats

In April last year, The Financial Times was reporting that numbers of those returning to the office had stalled and business leaders were concerned about the number of people who wanted to continue to work from home.

To some extent, this was reflected by ONS research released in May last year that found that, “the proportion of workers hybrid working has risen from 13% in early February 2022 to 24% in May 2022.” However, the research also found “The percentage working exclusively from home has fallen from 22% to 14% in the same period,” perhaps as a reflection of pressure by some organisations for workers to return to the office, at least part time.

Interestingly, the same research also found that:

• More than three-quarters (78%) of those who worked from home in some capacity said that it gave them an improved work life balance.

• Half reported it was quicker to complete work (52%) and that they had fewer distractions (53%).

• Almost half also reported improved well-being (47%).

The January 2022 analysis also revealed, perhaps unsurprisingly, that, “almost half of homeworkers (46%) … reported seeing their spending decrease since working from home”.

The disadvantages of working from home were reported as isolation and missing out, as well as employees finding:

• Fewer job opportunities.

• It was harder to work with others.  

While 8% of homeworkers reported no advantages, 31% reported no disadvantages at all to working from home.

Where does that leave you?

Many employers have made adjustments to working practices, in particular to allow more hybrid working, and without doubt there’s been a change in attitude with more of us realising that it is possible to work from home.

But are you one of the ones who have been required to go back to the office full time – and you’re not enjoying it? Perhaps you are hybrid working, dragging yourself into the office for two or three days a week? Or perhaps you are still at home but you miss the social interaction of working as part of a team?

Is there an alternative?

Yes, there is! Our educational franchises offer a unique opportunity which allows you to work with others whilst working from home. You’ll be running your own business but using a tried and tested business model and with lots of practical and technical support. You can set your own hours and financial goals, but also have a chance to create a legacy and give back to your community.

Working with the team at MagiKats HQ and your fellow franchisees provides the opportunity to interact with your work peers, as and when you feel you need that contact and support.

Heading out to provide our tuition workshops in your local community gives you the interaction with families and your staff – but on a schedule you choose.

And of course, working flexibly you can start to readdress that all important life balance.

We’d love to hear from you so that we can tell you more about our flexible business opportunities and what’s involved. So, if you’re thinking about a change or wishing there was another way, get in touch.