How to attract Millennials and Gen-Z through office design - DENTON

Designing Workspaces for Gen-Z and Millennials

In today’s dynamic workplace, attracting and retaining the younger generations, specifically Gen-Z and Millennials, requires a thoughtful approach. As Millennials and Gen-Z comprise the largest proportion of the UK workforce, attracting these generations has never been more important. 

Offer flexible work arrangements

One key aspect that Gen-Z and Millennials value is work-life balance, often prioritising and thriving in a flexible work environment. The agile workspace can attract and retain talent amongst this new generation, demonstrating that the approach to attracting talent has evolved significantly. 59% of Gen Z respondents said they would prioritise a job that offered a good work-life balance over a high salary, while 73% said they would prioritise a job that aligned with their values. Seeking more than just superficial perks, Gen-Z and Millennials prioritise meaningful purpose and the opportunity to maintain a healthy, balanced lifestyle. The traditional 9-5 structure no longer suffices. Today, businesses must align with these evolving preferences to successfully attract and retain their top talent.

‘As someone who deeply values a work-life balance, I have found that having a balanced working week that includes the option for remote work has had a significant impact on my productivity and overall wellbeing. However, designated days in the office have played an integral role in my experience at Next Chapter. Being physically present in the office environment has provided me with valuable opportunities for collaboration and face-to-face interactions with my colleagues. These in-person connections have not only fostered creativity and innovation but have also contributed to a sense of belonging and camaraderie within the team.’ Aoife, Marketing Executive at Next Chapter.

Work styles to consider that coincide with flexible working:

• Remote work – consider options you can offer that suit your business, such as working alternate days in the office and from home. 75% of Gen-Z and Millennial employees indicated they would like the option to work remotely in a recent survey by Deloitte.
  
  
• Compressed work weeks – team members working compressed work weeks have more time outside of work to take care of personal responsibilities; as a result, they can be more focused on the tasks at hand during their scheduled work time and have a better work-life balance.
  
  
• 4-day work week – more and more UK companies are signing up for this. With fewer hours worked, staff have more time to enjoy their home lives without any cut in pay.
  
  
• Flexi-time – this can reduce stress and fatigue as employees are able to avoid rush hour commuting and work at times that suit them best.

Create a comfortable work environment

Creating an office space that resonates with Gen-Z and Millennials is essential to employees’ productivity. Things to consider incorporating are comfortable seating, ample natural lighting, and biophilic elements such as plants. These elements help create a calming and inviting atmosphere, promoting a sense of wellbeing and increasing productivity and efficiency. Try to create a destination that your employees want to visit. Read more in our recent whitepaper exploring neo-workspace design.

Successful office designs not only have a positive impact on your Gen-Z and Millennials employees but on everyone. It improves talent acquisition, productivity, and inclusivity and inspires creativity and collaboration.

Important Values

Understanding the values of Gen-Z and Millennials is crucial to attracting and retaining them as employees. Office designs that attract these generations can align with their values, including sustainability, social responsibility, and work-life integration. By incorporating these values into your workplace, you can create an environment that resonates with these generations and encourages their commitment and loyalty.

Many Gen-Z are passionate about the environment, so creating an environmentally friendly workspace can have a huge impact. They are driven by a sense of purpose and want to work for companies that align with their important values. A study by Cone Communications found that 94% of Gen-Z believes companies should address social and environmental issues. Aligning with these important values and working flexibly is the winning combo for this generation, so be sure to share your green initiatives. Or, if you have one, a comprehensive ESG policy is the best way to demonstrate your values.

Prioritise technology

The younger generation are digital natives and have a strong affinity for technology, so they value access to the latest technology. Ensure your office is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, such as smart offices, digital collaboration platforms, and efficient communication systems to help them be productive and efficient. 

Incorporate social spaces

Millennials value socialising and building relationships with co-workers. Consider incorporating social spaces such as a coffee bar or lounge area where employees can gather, interact, and form connections. These informal settings foster a sense of community and encourage social interaction and informal conversations.

Personalised workspaces

Millennials value individuality and self-expression. Allowing employees to personalise their workspaces with decorations, photos, and other personal touches can create a sense of ownership and identity. We discuss best practices for creating personalised work areas in our neo-workspace design whitepaper. 

Benefits of Gen Z and Millennials in your office

The presence of Millennials and Gen-Z generations in your office brings a range of benefits, including fresh perspective, innovative ideas, and a drive for positive change that can propel your company forward.

• Retaining these employees brings diverse perspectives and experiences –  this leads to benefits such as fresh ideas, increased creativity and improved problem-solving.
  
  
• Gen-Zers and Millennials have a strong passion for the environment, sustainability, and social responsibility – they tend to seek organisations with a broader mission and purpose, aiming to make a meaningful impact through their work. Employers can benefit from this passion by driving positive change, attracting top talent, increasing employee engagement and retention, and fostering innovation.
  
  
• Millennials and Gen-Z thrive in collaborative environments – in general, they prefer working in teams. Consider incorporating open spaces, shared workstations, and breakout areas to facilitate teamwork and impromptu meetings.

DENTON, experts at attracting the right talent through office fit-outs

By embracing the preferences and values of Gen-Z and Millennials in your office design, you can create a workplace that attracts and engages these generations. Offering flexible work arrangements, prioritising comfort and wellbeing, emphasising collaboration, incorporating technology, creating social spaces, and allowing for personalised workspaces are key strategies to consider.

Want us to help you develop your office? Drop our friendly, experienced team a line today and let’s start an office design and build project together. Or browse some of our recent projects to learn more about the services we offer.