There has been a lot of debate over the years related to remote working by employees. Much of it has been centered around productivity form the business’ point of view. A recent survey by Coldwell Banker Commercial Affiliates on remote working comes at it from the employee point of view. It shows some interesting concerns. While remote working does offer increased flexibility to employees, less commute time and more control, the survey found that 45% of U.S. workers and 55% of Millennials would rather work in an office than remotely. The survey found that there are 3 main factors employees are looking for:
- Face Time with Colleagues – A quarter of respondents report negative feelings while working from home, including feeling less a part of their team. It is more difficult to collaborate or develop relationships with fellow workers without a central office.
- Privacy – 70% of U.S. Adults – and a whopping three-quarters of Millennials – would feel more comfortable working in an open floor plan if there were private spaces available to them. This is one of the fundamental design factors in today’s coworking office design.
- Convenience – Most U.S. workers – and nearly two-thirds of Millennials (62%) – would prefer to work in an office that was in or near a shopping center over one that wasn’t. Which is one of the drivers of the return to the downtown markets from the suburbs especially for companies that have a high percentage of millennial workers. In other words, the tech giants.
This does not necessarily mean that businesses should end remote working, but it does evidence the need to have more flexibility. It does not need to be an all or nothing decision. Essentially employees like a base station to be able to use on an as needed bases. Done right this will enable those who are more comfortable working in an office to do so, but still allow the flexibility to work wherever they feel they can be most productive. It sounds like an agile workplace because it is. It also sounds like a Coworking office space and is that too.
If you would like some help in finding office space, that is what we do with our network of local brokers throughout the US, Canada and many other countries. Contact us today to find out how we can help; typically at no cost to you.