The workplace landscape today is ever-changing with the rise in remote and hybrid working models. Before the pandemic, offices were merely a physical space intended to increase brand exposure, attract clients and customers, and give employees a space to do the work they need to do. People clocked in at 9, and clocked out at 5, and every day, this cycle was on repeat.
With the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic, companies everywhere were forced to rethink the way they work. The demand for hybrid and satellite workspaces has never been higher.
Today, the demand for office spaces is driven by individual lifestyles, proximity to home, and the need to come together and collaborate on particular projects. Flexibility, convenience, and the employee experience is now taking center stage.
In this article, I will explore the growing importance of the office “hotelization” model and why Veery is pioneering and reshaping the traditional conception of what it means to provide an office space.
From Physical Space to Holistic Experience
Historically, a company’s office space had two primary purposes: one, to increase brand exposure, and two, to give employees a space to clock in and out. The primary goal was to find a strategic location that would maximize visibility and give the company the most ROI (return on investment).
With the rise of remote and hybrid working models, all of this has changed. Today, companies need to center around employee experience, and ensuring that employees have the flexibility to come in when it makes the most sense to them. At the same time, employees need an environment that caters to their growing needs. This shift means bringing hospitality into the workplace.
This is the first tenet of office hotelization. It’s about taking the hassle out of basic conveniences so employees can focus solely on the purpose for which they are coming to the office.
The Emergence of Coworking Spaces
Coworking spaces are a prime example of the shift from a product focus to a service focus. Coworking spaces offer far more than just a desk and chair to work from. They give people a vibrant community of like-minded professionals, networking opportunities, and a range of amenities — from snacks and lunch to climbing walls and foosball tables.
Coworking spaces have become a common staple of the global workforce, and a hub of collaboration, innovation and creative thinking — not to mention diverse thought and talent. The rise of coworking spaces is just the evidence we need to show us that today’s workforce is looking for a true experience when it comes to office space.
The Third Workplace Revolution: The Experience-Driven Office
Coworking spaces were the first departure from traditional 9-5 office spaces. I like to think of it as the second workplace revolution. What Veery is ushering in is the third workplace revolution. We’re dialing in on the shift towards experience-driven office spaces, but with each customer in mind.
It’s no longer enough to simply offer functional workspaces with basic amenities. Companies now need to provide an immersive experience to employees that is personalized, enhances their experience, and caters to their evolving needs. This means going beyond property management and amenities, and cultivating meaningful value within the workplace.
Understanding Today’s Workforce
Today’s workforce is looking for more than just a space to work. They crave flexibility, convenience and personalized services. What we know is that people value the freedom to choose where, when and how they work.
Flexible office space is a critical component of today’s work landscape. We’re giving people what they’re looking for – a seamless experience with tailored hospitality services and amenities that reflect personal values and resonate with each individual renter.
To thrive in today’s dynamic landscape, every company needs to embrace the transition from office-as-a-product to office-as-a-service. This means investing in premium management and amenities that will bring people together. By fostering a vibrant and inclusive workplace, businesses can better attract and retain top talent.
The office hotelization movement marks a significant shift in the way we see and use office spaces. The focus is on providing flexible, service-oriented, meaningful environments that cater to the evolving needs of today’s workforce. As we embrace this transformative journey, businesses must stay agile, adapt to evolving demands and prioritize employee wellbeing to thrive as we enter this third workplace revolution.
For more content from Veery, check out some of our other articles on veeryoffices.com/blog
