By: Cathie Ericson
Think millennials and Gen Z only care about ping pong tables and nap pods in their office space, or just want the shortest commute? Think again: More than 70% of millennials choose their jobs based on the office space, and almost 65% of office professionals believe that workplace design and environment is equally important or more important than office location, according to a 2017 Capital One Work Environment Survey.
So why not use your office space as a competitive advantage? Here are five elements millennials and Gen Z crave in the office space of today:
Flexible layouts
Millennials and Gen Z are used to collaborating, which is why workspaces need to be flexible and adaptable. Think using movable furniture that workers can reconfigure to form different groupings, from rolling chairs to movable white boards and other tools that can contribute to group dynamics.
Private spaces
While Gen Z values teamwork, they also like quiet spaces to work alone or to have one-on-one meetings. “A hybrid office plan with private as well as collaborative work spaces can be the environment of choice,” suggests Human Resource Executive magazine.
Creative options in furnishings
Millennials and Gen Z are more interested in wellness than other generations, and therefore might be attracted to dynamic furnishings, such as walkable treadmill workstations and pedal tables. And, ergonomically correct furnishings can prevent back, neck and shoulder strain, along with headaches or eyestrain.
The latest tech
It likely comes as no surprise that these “digital natives” are focused on workplace technology. Substandard offerings might even cause them to walk out the door: A Future Workforce study found that more than 40% of those aged 18 to 34 would quit a job if the tech was subpar, compared to one quarter of those aged 35 and older. In addition, more than 80% of the younger group consider workplace tech as a factor when considering a job offer, versus 67% of those 35 and older.
Eco-conscious options
Believe it or not, “natural light” was what office professionals craved the most in the Capital One survey, cited by 62%. So, consider going ahead and let the sunshine in by positioning as many desks as possible near windows and allowing employees to control their blinds to let there be light.
Natural light is just one of the eco-friendly office ideas you can incorporate. Almost three out of four millennials are willing to pay more for sustainable products, and it’s easy to imagine they expect their workplaces to embrace that aesthetic. Ways in which companies can fulfill this preference include using LED lighting, installing low VOC carpet and purchasing ENERGY STAR® office equipment.
This sustainable focus can extend to your transportation options as well. Bike racks and showers or subsidized passes for public transportation can demonstrate your commitment to environmentally-friendly commuting.
