Recruiting top talent isn’t easy — especially in today’s market. Despite recent economic challenges, many employers are still struggling to find strong people for open roles. Modern job seekers are looking for flexibility in all its forms. And that means employers need to raise their game with meaningful office amenities.
So, what exactly can your organization do to compete more successfully? If your people need to work onsite at least part of the time, it’s important to think creatively about the office amenities you offer.
Smart employers are making their office facilities more inviting by adding a variety of attractive amenities. These enhancements ensure that your workforce will be more comfortable and content — whenever they need to get their job done onsite.
Modern Office Amenities That Attract Talent
To create a comfortable, contemporary workplace that meets the needs of today’s workforce, consider investing in office amenities like these:
1. Dedicated Parent Rooms
Parent rooms can be highly beneficial for mothers who return to the workplace after giving birth. The CDC estimates that over 80% of working women nurse their children for months. However, this practice can be difficult when returning to a traditional work setting. New mothers may choose not to continue breastfeeding because it is inconvenient. But knowing a private space is available for this purpose makes the decision easier.
Breastfeeding offers numerous health benefits for babies. Parent rooms make it convenient for mothers to nurse or pump breast milk in private when needed, rather than having to hide in the bathroom or their car. A parent room is a testament to employees that you value them and ensure they receive the parental benefits they deserve.
2. Premium Coffee Perks
Many employees would rather be late to work than skip their morning coffee. But an old, broken office coffee machine doesn’t help. This is why many companies are replacing outdated coffee makers with high-end equipment.
Although this expense can add up quickly, employers often find that it’s worth the investment. Even one cup of coffee a day seems like a small thing. But it can cost an employee over $1,000 a year. Reducing this cost — or eliminating it entirely — can help entice candidates to join your company.
Many employers are going beyond helping staff save money on their caffeine habit. For example, some provide top-tier coffee services. Others have hired an in-house barista who serves specialty coffee to order. Considering the cost of coffee drinks from outside vendors, employees often welcome this kind of office perk. And with premium coffee available onsite, people are less likely to leave the office in search of a morning or afternoon brew. So it can improve productivity at the same time it supports a more welcoming culture.
If you can’t afford a dedicated barista, you could at least consider purchasing a few essentials that will impress coffee and tea connoisseurs. You could install espresso machines in break rooms. You could pay for premium coffee delivery on a regular basis. Or you could set up a “coffee bonus” system that rewards staff with generous gift cards from local coffee shops whenever they perform well or receive positive feedback from their peers, managers, or customers.
3. Welcoming Common Spaces
Thoughtfully designed common areas, including lounge spaces and flexible workstations, help employees feel comfortable and encourage them to recharge their batteries whenever they’re working onsite. This applies to other specialized functional facilities as well, like spaces for games, in-house gyms, or relaxation rooms.
Even alternative work locations, like outdoor settings, can be attractive for modern employees, who prefer access to a variety of spaces throughout their day. Access to shade can offer an inviting place to relax during breaks. And for those who prefer working outdoors, a shaded area can improve concentration, productivity, and creativity.
Ample lounge areas help team members engage and bond more deeply with each other. This is important because stronger team relationships build a more supportive environment that increases employee satisfaction and retention. You want your employees to feel comfortable around one another and develop camaraderie.
4. Convenient Childcare Services
Childcare is getting so pricey that many employees take an extended leave of absence or choose not to return to work after becoming parents. A healthy work-life balance is everything to millennials, who represent about 35% of today’s U.S. workforce. And a positive work culture is everything to this generation.
One way to demonstrate support for younger employees is by establishing reliable childcare options. You can significantly reduce the burden on working parents by creating an in-office area for children, providing formal onsite childcare services, or offering access to nearby third-party options.
Caregiving options help parents in countless ways. Many young workers who would otherwise be unable to afford childcare find these services priceless. Onsite services can be especially handy when an employee faces a last-minute school cancellation or doctor’s appointment. This means they don’t have to miss work, and they’ll feel confident that their child is in good hands.
To build a program that is attractive and effective, be sure your employees are always a part of the conversation. Continuously seek feedback, listen to employee concerns, and adjust these work amenities, accordingly.
5. Support Modern Commuting Options
No matter where your organization is based, location is crucial to employees — especially if your office is based in a city. The most attractive work sites are located in a central area with easy access to public transportation. A location close to public bus lines and subway stations means your facilities will be within reach for more people.
But don’t stop with traditional commuting considerations. You can gain an advantage over your competitors by adding modern transportation amenities. For example, consider adding bike racks or secure storage areas for people who prefer to commute via bicycle. With more employees biking to work, a bike rack and lock system can attract and retain health-minded top talent.
In addition, eco-conscious employees who drive electric or hybrid vehicles will appreciate the convenience of EV car charging stations. It’s the same concept as offering a prime parking spot. You want to meet employees’ preferences and needs while ensuring they feel special.
Also, extending sustainability to other aspects of your operations can tell candidates and existing employees that you share their interest in protecting the planet. For example, you can reduce energy use across all work locations to demonstrate a commitment to environmentally friendly practices.
6. Professional Growth Opportunities
Many high-potential employees strive for personal and professional growth as they pursue their goals. Providing opportunities for learning and career development attracts candidates with a growth mindset. It also encourages existing employees to continuously develop their skills and strive for excellence. Facilitating this growth leads to higher productivity, engagement, satisfaction, and retention.
Growth fosters teamwork and helps employees feel valued and encouraged to achieve new personal bests. You can provide opportunities by offering mentorships, training programs, or covering tuition for higher education. Extraordinary people don’t want to settle — they want to grow. Offering them opportunities to grow within your company gives them a compelling reason to join your organization and remain on board over time.
A Final Note on Attractive Office Amenities
In today’s tight talent market, office amenities that make employees feel welcome are a terrific way to attract great candidates. A warm, inviting, inclusive workplace can help convince qualified people to accept a job offer with your company.
However, a strong culture with modern amenities can do much more than help you beat competitors at the recruitment game. The right combination can also improve your retention rate — which ultimately reduces the need to recruit more people over time.
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