May 1, 2024. The pandemic redefined what the best office looks like. For many, it meant no office at all. But, despite pushback from happy-to-be-at-home (and certainly more productive) employees, 90% of companies with a physical footprint expect to implement return-to-office policies by the end of 2024. As of August 2023, 51% already had one in place.
Here are a few ideas to help turn your workplace into the best office for returning employees.
1. Upgrade to a new real estate space while it’s cheap
Compared to pre-pandemic times, renewal rates for office leases have fallen by 41%, while new leases and relocations are down only 21%.
Class A and A+ office buildings are in greater demand than their Class B and C counterparts—and they can command a 50% and 94% premium, respectively.
When asked whether their company has or plans to have a physical footprint…
“Investments in the physical office space are an important part of a broader hybrid strategy.”
Sean Grundy, CEO, Bevi
Opportunity: With the commercial real estate market still in recovery, now is a great time to shop for a new workspace or to assess your current footprint to ensure your office will accommodate your return-to-office policies.
2. Invest in the flow and functionality of your office
43% of office workplaces have effective spaces and offer a great occupant experience, while 33% do neither. Employees in workplaces with both are more engaged and committed and have better team relationships and a sense of belonging.
Six in 10 corporate real estate professionals plan to redesign their offices to be more fluid and flexible.
Among those offices who did renovate…
IoT solutions that monitor space usage and occupancy rates can reduce energy consumption by 30 to 40%.
“Employees are significantly less resistant to a top-down return-to-office push if the physical office space is welcoming, comfortable, and productive.”
Sean Grundy, CEO, Bevi
Workspaces with a window-to-wall ratio of 60% are optimal for worker performance.
Opportunity: Create an environment for return-to-office success by evaluating your current workplace. Update your floor plans, interior design and building systems to integrate more modern and efficient technology and to accommodate the needs of a dynamic workforce—or risk low employee engagement, innovation and company loyalty.
3. The best offices have the best amenities
Leading companies seeking new real estate look for buildings with an average of 14 amenities and upwards of 18.
Among the most sought-after amenities, we are seeing preference for…
Perks at work are also an essential part of the employee experience. Free coffee and beer on tap aren’t enough (though no one’s complaining if they get them).
The perks that make for the best office experience for employees…
Going into the office costs each work an average of $51 per day. That’s $14 for commuting and $8 for parking, $13 for breakfast and a coffee as well as $16 for lunch. Meals and snacks and beverage options, natural light, sparkling beverages, and inviting collaborative spaces are all levers that help encourage employees to come in and see the value in cross-functional engagement rather than just working remotely.
Opportunity: Lighten the logistical burden of return-to-office by outfitting your workplace with facilities, services, and amenities to create an unparalleled experience that engages employees and attracts new talent.
Learn more about Bevi…
Read the latest about what makes the best office on Bevi’s blog
Ryan Daly
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