Office Space Planning from the Perspective of Human Resources
Having the right office space plan can mean the difference in office dynamics, budget-savviness, employee retention, and efficiency. Note that this goes beyond office aesthetics. Unfortunately, business owners and human resource managers don’t give office space planning the attention it deserves. Most innovative companies are five times more likely to have smart office plans that enhance communication and collaboration.
HR managers should consider several things when searching for a new office space. Business offices reflect the company’s brand and personality. Having an invigorating and inviting space communicates business culture and helps attract top talent. While business owners can find office spaces by themselves, working with professional commercial rental brokers from Jeff Tabor Group is prudent. Small businesses should consider the following to choose an office space that attracts and retain top talent:
1. Floor plan
Small business owners and HR managers should pick a floor plan that fosters efficiency and collaboration. The office space can be divided into various functional areas to suit business needs. For instance, if clients and employees are required to present or pitch regularly, there should be designated meetings or conference rooms. Office layouts affect customer and employee interactions and can significantly change the brand’s image.
2. Privacy
Businesses are entirely unique. While some have an endless stream of clients visiting their offices, others rely on phone calls to meet their goals. These businesses use physical offices as a place for employees to collaborate and strategize. Depending on the business’s unique needs, HR managers should find space that provides appropriate privacy for employees and business clients. This might include reserving meeting rooms, cubicles, or an open layout, depending on the business’s privacy policy.
3. Culture
Employees like working in environments they feel valued. The nature of your office space affects the business’s ability to cultivate unique business culture. Whether HR managers prioritize flexible schedules, career advancement opportunities, or work/life balance, their preferences should be reflected in the office plan. Physical offices should promote employee bonding and individual growth. Office designs and branding conveys how the business interacts with customers and employees.
4. Input from employees
Businesses, regardless of their size, should consider employee input when relocating to new offices. Employees of most startups may fail to understand the reasons behind HR managers’ choice of the new location. However, if you are relocating with your entire team, it is beneficial for team members to voice their opinions on various issues, such as what was lacking in previous offices.
5. Furniture and interior décor
How the office space is arranged and furnished should align with the brand voice. For instance, a creative media company shouldn’t operate in an office with a similar design to a boutique law firm. Office design should primarily correlate with the nature of the business. HR managers should consider specific innate elements of the office space, such as choice of furniture, natural light, color scheme, artwork, and more.
Summary
Beyond the location and budget, business owners and HR managers should consider several aspects when searching for office space. Finding and retaining top talents is currently a major challenge, especially for small businesses. HR managers should start by choosing the right office space that sustains business growth, fosters productivity, and keeps employees motivated.
Authored by Martin William, Kamil Web Solutions