We are now in a new phase of the workplace evolution, the fifth in the past 300 years. The first industrial revolution in the early 19th century was driven by steam power and factories. The 20th century brought mass production and assembly lines. The third revolution, in the mid to late 20th century, was marked by computers and the internet. Now, we are entering the fourth phase with robotics and AI.
However, the biggest shift in workplace expectations came from the COVID-19 pandemic, which significantly altered our mindset, habits, and routines. This change wasn’t about technology or production but about how we work and feel. Six years ago, working from home was a rare perk, but now, it’s a common expectation.
Globally, workplace dynamics have changed since the pandemic. Employees are now expecting more choice and flexibility in how they work. For the new generation of employees who entered the workforce post-COVID, the ability to choose their work environment is more important than pay and rewards. Mandating office time is becoming a dealbreaker for attraction, recruitment, and retention.
Workplace Experience Defined
So, what is the Workplace Experience? To attract employees back to the office, there must be greater incentives. This term encompasses the overall work environment, including space, surroundings, systems, tools, technology, and people engagement.
Creating an optimal environment that attracts people and businesses back to the office requires systematic changes. The days of monotonous office spaces with rows of desks, water coolers, and filing cabinets are gone. Now, employees expect more.
Office Design for Attraction and Retention
Design and layout are now a key factor in attraction and retention. Research shows that the environment influences productivity. Whether sitting at a desk, in a meeting room, finding personal space, or working in a bustling coffee shop, offering choices within the office environment is crucial.
The concept of productivity has evolved. While working from home can reduce distractions, engaging and collaborating in the office is equally productive and beneficial for making meaningful connections.
Inclusive Cultures for a Future-proof Workplace
As the modern workplace evolves, so does our understanding of neurodiversity and inclusion. Future-focused businesses are designing spaces that cater to neurodivergent needs. This includes layout, space, technology, working arrangements, communication, understanding, and training, providing support beyond just a ‘wellness room.’ This approach attracts tenants and employees to the office regularly.
What We Do
At OCS, we understand this. Enhancing the workplace experience is central to our work with customers. We aim to create a vibrant, energetic, and productive environment, providing comfort and support throughout the day.
Creating Purposeful Workspaces: Our Cleaning, Security, and Hard Services teams are often seen as the face of the business. Being omnipresent, passionate, and ensuring our customers have a space they can be proud of; our teams play a crucial role in building a sense of purpose and increasing focus for our customers’ teams.
Building Strong Connections: Our Front-of-House teams excel in creating strong connections and engagement with our customers’ teams, valuing positive interaction and a proactive approach. Making someone’s day, no matter how small, motivates us. We showcase the importance of friendly, professional, and consistent service.
A Sense of Community: Customers feel part of our community, and we regularly engage with them through events in our lobbies, encouraging interaction and shared experiences, providing an incentive to work from the office.
The Impact of First Impressions: The first impression when entering the workplace is crucial. While furnishings and facilities play a part, it’s the people who elevate the environment to a vibrant and dynamic level.
Setting the Standard for Workplace Experience: Businesses with a strong workplace strategy that fosters community and engagement set the standards for an immersive and positive workplace experience.
