Govia Thameslink Railway has carried out research which shows that travelling into the office can improve confidence at work and increase well-being.

As the new year gets underway many set out with renewed focus and ambition especially based around the workplace. As hybrid working is clearly here to stay, research carried out by Govia Thameslink Railway has shown that workers are now beginning to prefer in-person interactions and are making the most of their travel to work.

Well-known psychologist Emma Kenny has worked with Govia Thameslink Railway which operates Southern, Thameslink, Great Northern and Gatwick Express to understand why more workers are rediscovering their confidence in balancing the benefits of working from home and also in-person.

The research demonstrates that 66% of respondents agree that the working environment is more enjoyable when others are with them. Emma suggested that human connection and regular micro-interaction are vital to support both well-being and positive mental health and said: “While working from home undeniably has its perks, in-person interactions with colleagues – be it debating an issue, sharing ideas, or simply socialising – can help office workers feel more satisfied with their work-life on the whole.”

42% Of respondents also reported that working in the office can increase their development at work with some (70%) revealing that confidence in meetings and when presenting (64%) is increased when in person.

Emma also said: “Hybrid working has undoubtedly given people a better work-life balance, but there are certain times when being around others could help when it comes to developing at work – and this could be down to demographics. The research suggests that 70% of people aged 25-34, as well as 80% of those 55 and over, feel more confident when presenting in person. Organising important meetings to take place in-person could help put workers at ease and gain valuable feedback.”

The research also revealed that they look to get more out of the time spent travelling to work on the train with a clear focus on health and wellbeing. People revealed that in place of working, they now enjoy reading (34%) and listening to podcasts (30%). A third of respondents also used their journey to take a break from screens and 33% reported enjoying the view. The final 17% said that they now concentrate on making commutes more mindful and use meditation apps which provide well-needed ‘me time’.

Emma explains: “These uninterrupted moments not only help to get us in the right headspace for a day at work, but after a full-on day in the office, they help us unwind too before arriving home. The journey to and from work is a physical way to separate work life and home life.”

The insights gained from the research have revealed how people use their commute time and what they enjoy doing with their free time and in response, Southern is now trialling a new loyalty scheme for passengers. The scheme sees customers able to build points for every pound spent which can be used on rewards such as family days out, self-education courses, mindfulness app subscriptions, money towards cinema tickets, coffee and dining out. The trial started on Monday the 9th of January and will run until Sunday the 5th of March and is available for customers travelling with Southern, it is hoped that if successful the scheme will be rolled out across the Govia Thameslink Railway network.

Jenny Saunders, Customer Services Director at Govia Thameslink Railway, comments: “Passengers continue to steadily return to rail and although the industry has been through challenges recently, it’s good to see people mixing up their working patterns to get the most from home and office working.

“Our research tells us that people want to be rewarded for their journeys, so we’re delighted to provide added value to tickets with a new loyalty scheme. Customers can build towards a diverse choice of rewards, which can be used as part of their commute, or in their free time.”

Emma Kenny’s top tips for productivity and positive mental health:

1. The act of travelling to work can psych us up for the day ahead. A change of environment helps boost creativity, so even if you’re not going into the office, try working in a different location for the day.
2. Uninterrupted moments are hugely beneficial to our mental health. As well as using the commute to catch up on work, you should also use the opportunity to have a break from the laptop by tuning into a podcast or audiobook whilst taking in the views.
3. Make time for kitchen chat! A quick catch-up with a colleague whilst making a cup of tea may seem minor, but these interactions have a direct impact on mental well-being. These connections help us to feel a sense of belonging in the workplace.
4. Combine work and play to maximise a trip to the office. With commuting happening less often than in previous years, workers really want to make the most of a trip in. Going for a drink with colleagues after work or meeting a friend for dinner can help you break up the week and enable you to unwind in a social setting.
5. Utilise office time for all-important feedback. Instead of scheduling a formal meeting, which can seem daunting, use the opportunity of facetime in the office to gain feedback and support from your peers.