Lobbying For Talent
Employees have been lobbying for inventive ways to merge productivity and flexibility in the work environment for years. Mobility and transitional office design have created a workforce that is highly networked. Shared, multipurpose driven spaces that redefine the boundaries of collaboration and improve employee performance overall have given the workforce a freedom they have seldom had. Designing for more effective communication and networking is the reason. It promotes engagement and encourages an open exchange of ideas.
There are three key trends the mobile, productivity driven work ethic is driving:
- Work/life integration
- Technology
- Top talent
Goal driven, technologically hyper-aware and boasting sharp skills aptly describes the workforce of today. They are seeking an integrated work/life office environment that allows them to flex their career muscles and still have a life. Technology is on their side in a wireless world that allows complete mobility. The challenge is creating a work environment where they want to gather, collaborate and elevate your brand. Companies are perpetually competing to recruit and retain the brightest and best talent they can find. Creating a vibrant environment to keep them is the challenge.
There are some hot crossover design trends making an appearance in the office world. Taking cues from hospitality design and opening up the functionality of your lobby/reception area is one of them. Turning your lobby into a collaboration destination could start a huge conversation! Outfitted with technology and comfort, integrated with charging stations, furnishings that can adapt and space to move around will add not only functionality but intrigue to your brand and your office.
Depending on the type of business you have, a dedicated reception area may be better utilized as a multi-function space. Mobile furnishings that can adapt and change for impromptu meetings make any space more functional. Smaller furniture groupings that can allow for intimate meetings when telecommuters come in for the day can add to their productivity, since most would not have a dedicated office space. Scattering small huddle spaces around the office can also entice your team to think outside the box on how they meet and use their time in the office.
Transition spaces that fit the upwardly mobile workforce are constantly changing office design and furniture development. Using every square inch of your office space to foster communication and productivity is a trend that will keep your staff motivated and your office design fresh. This is a trend that continues to evolve and change as collaborative design continues to be the best solution for the upwardly mobile.
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MEET TERESA ALVAREZ: Teresa is an office furniture specialist who can help your startup select the best value from our Good, Better and Best selections. With 12 years experience in the office interiors and office supply business, she can help you make an entrance. Her email is teresa@officefurniturenow.com or give her a call at 888-910-3769 x139.
