by Brianna Crandall — March 3, 2017 — In order to win the war for talent, one of the most pressing concerns for corporations globally, they will need to offer “best-in-class” workplace experiences based on the latest technology and services for employees, according to new research findings presented by corporate real estate (CRE) professionals association CoreNet Global and facilities services provider ISS World Services.
Peter Ankerstjerne, CMO/head of Group Marketing, ISS World Services, commented:
The interpersonal interface between company and employee, whether facilitated by technology, buildings or direct human contact — this is where it is possible to create a real and genuine emotional connection with workers and build long-lasting loyalty between your company and your employees. This is key in creating a workplace of the future and winning the war [for] talent.
Based on current trends, and in light of dramatic changes in the nature of work, there is little doubt that corporations will have to think differently, engage technology, and provide a human connection to their employees. Among the findings of the research presented:
- Sixty percent of decision makers say that the need for office space is decreasing
- Only thirty-six percent of employees are highly engaged
- The number of mobile workers today is 1.3 billion globally; 37 percent of the total workforce
Tim Venable, senior vice president of CoreNet Global, pointed out:
Office space is evolving to support changing business requirements. At times, for some companies, that will mean less space. But the office — both physical and virtual — will continue to play a crucial role in corporate success by helping attract the best and brightest talent and by providing the means for teamwork, creativity and innovation.
Ankerstjerne said that employers need to recognize that the “workplace” is now all encompassing, and it includes addressing multiple environments from arriving at work, being in the building, collaborating, office support and facilitating mobile work to leaving at the end of the day. He added:
Corporations need alternative workspaces to promote corporate culture, foster collaboration, knowledge sharing, flexibility, speed, innovation and productivity.
Among the factors that will influence employees is a heightened user experience: easier collaboration, enhanced earning environments, efficient working solutions, and healthy work environments.
The overall benefit to addressing workplace modernization, Ankerstjerne noted, is that in addition to retaining talented workers, companies will recognize that customer service increases when employees are fully engaged. And that will be reflected in the bottom line.