How Office Space Supports Recruiting and Retaining Talent

Everything checked out on paper; the job description, location, salary, and industry. But in your in-person interview, the receptionist forgot to greet you, the office place was stuffy and outdated, and the lack of windows resulted in spotlights of fluorescent light. Needless to say, you were left with the kind of bad aftertaste no breath mint could cure, and your dream job on paper suddenly seemed like a step in the wrong direction.

Fortunately, companies are realizing that workplace design directly impacts recruiting and retaining top talent. Do you want the best of the best employees? Then investing in a well-designed office space is worth the cost. Below are four ways why a thought-out office space is more than important, it’s essential.

1) It Increases Employee Satisfaction

Giving employees the option to work in private offices, lounge areas, or meeting rooms helps the company appeal to a larger audience and meet the needs of more candidates. Allowing employees to choose how and where they work establishes a sense of empowerment, ultimately leading to satisfaction. In order to recruit top talent, candidates and employees must feel like they are able to be productive at work no matter the day or task.

2) It Encourages and Inspires Innovative and Creative Thinking

No employee is attracted to an office with blocked-off cubicles and blank white walls. Instead, companies should create spaces that makes employees feel comfortable. Employees spend 8-10 hours a day at their office, so it’s basically their “home away from home.”

Creative thinking can be accomplished by adding creative elements around the office. This may look like adding color and trendy furniture, or areas with natural light. Having common areas that promote communication and teamwork can increase creativity among your office.

3) It Encourages Collaboration and Employee Morale

They say the best ideas come from collaboration. Although some people may get more work done in a quiet space with limited distractions, it’s good to have areas within an office that encourages open communication. When spaces are designed for collaboration, individuals can brainstorm and tackle complex problems that otherwise may be hard doing alone.

Additionally, employees are generally happier when they work in a pleasant and clean environment with space to decompress from their day-to-day assignments. Even the most motivated employees need a working environment that meets all of their needs.

4) It Promotes a Positive Corporate Culture

There are multiple attributes that make jobs attractive to candidates: salary, benefits, geography, people, and perks. However, what might be just as important to candidates is company culture. One way company culture can be shown is through office space design and layout. Therefore, it is important your office space embodies your company’s brand. Does this space feel like a place employees would want to work? Does the space encourage collaboration, relationships, and inclusion? Is the office innovative and exciting? Does it spark creativity? The way your office space looks helps future candidates gain a better understanding of the company’s personality and priorities. It helps your current employees feel valued and comfortable, which leads to a job well done.