In today’s dynamic and fiercely competitive job market, businesses are recognising that the traditional office setup is no longer enough to attract and retain top talent. This year, Ireland hit a record-low unemployment rate of 3.9 per cent, the lowest we have seen since 2001. As a result, skilled workers have gained greater bargaining power and are no longer content with competitive salaries alone. Instead, companies are having to find new and sustainable ways of keeping their employees interested as well as invested. In this evolving landscape, innovative and premium office space that supports flexibility has emerged as an essential element for retaining and satisfying employees.
It’s widely acknowledged that our approach to work has undergone substantial transformation in recent years. As companies adapted to new ways of operating, employees came to appreciate the advantages of flexible work arrangements. While the focus on flexibility remains a priority, employers should not overlook the significance of their physical office environments. In fact, there is a clear and increasing demand within the workforce for high-quality and inspiring workspace.
A recent survey conducted by Engine Insights revealed that 95 per cent of Generation Z and 93 per cent of Millennial employees face challenges when working from home. Additionally, PwC’s Work from Home Survey 2021 found that 87 per cent of employees view the office as essential for collaborating and building relationships with team members. So, whilst flexible working has grown considerably in popularity, it’s crucial for employers to prioritise their physical office spaces with the same dedication as they do with flexible working options.
The right workspace is more than just a physical location; it’s a source of inspiration, collaboration, and a haven from the daily hustle and bustle, particularly for those transitioning from busy home environments. Company culture plays a vital role in how employees perceive their workplace, and the ideal space can enhance that culture. Facilities within the office itself, like breakout areas, casual workspaces, on-site cafes, and private phone booths empower flexible working and, in turn, boosts productivity. Ultimately, offices offering these enriching experiences not only foster employee happiness but also contribute to higher retention rates.
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Not only are employees seeking collaborative workspaces, but they are also prioritising spaces that support their health and well-being. According to results published in the International Well Building Institute’s 2023 State of Workforce Well-Being Poll, more than 8 in 10 full-time employees agreed that supporting worker health is now a ‘must-have’ for companies. Iconic Offices, Ireland’s leading flexible workspace provider, was the first WELL Gold v2 Certified workspace in Europe with their office space The Lennox Building. The Lennox provides premium office space facilities for their clients that focus on the health and well-being of its occupants; facilities include temperature and air-controlled systems, floor-to-ceiling windows promoting natural light, ergonomic sit-stand desks, an outdoor terrace, as well as bike and shower facilities. This is in addition to its unique interior design featuring an indoor cherry blossom tree offering that ‘wow’ factor on arrival, which is one of the many reasons Chupi Sweetman, founder of Chupi, recently partnered with Iconic Offices, “Iconic have beautiful buildings and beautiful workspaces, if I’m going to work outside of our studios – and we’ve got gorgeous studios – I want to be somewhere inspirational.” Through innovative office space design, Iconic provides clients with collaborative and unique workspaces that their clients can take pride in.
Flexible workspaces not only benefit employees, the advantages of shared office space have far-reaching benefits for employers too. The plug-and-play structure of these spaces means that the everyday needs of your team are taken care of, from IT solutions to mail services to general maintenance. In addition, employers have the flexibility to take the space that they need when they need it, reducing unnecessary costs on unused office space. Iconic Offices’ clients have the option to choose from spaces across 14 locations in Dublin 2 and Dublin 8, allowing you to choose a space that meets the exact requirements of your business.
In the current talent war, success hinges on employers’ ability to meet the modern workforce’s demands. By transitioning to flexible workspace, businesses can not only meet these expectations but surpass them. Iconic Offices’ premium workspaces are designed to not only attract top candidates but also to foster an environment where your employees feel valued and well-supported.
Iconic Offices is offering 10 complimentary Day Office Passes and 10 complimentary Coworking Day Passes for businesses to get the opportunity to experience the Iconic difference for themselves.
It’s your office for the day with your team or co-work in an open-plan collaborative environment – your workspace, your way.
Simply follow the link and enter code DOIT1023 for Day Office Pass or code CWDPIT1023 for Coworking Day Pass.
*Limited to one per person, expires 30th November 2023, T&Cs apply