Remote working has undoubtedly become a staple in today’s workforce. However, the mass migration to this working arrangement over the last several months has led to a major disruption of the commercial real estate industry.
Now, businesses are opting for more flexible lease terms rather than long-term commitments, and seeking space that focuses on wellness and user experience.
Beyond flexible workspaces, companies are also looking towards a more “liquid workforce” that relies on freelancers and contractual talent. This, along with the growth of flexible office operators, are coming together to create a work atmosphere that is fully agile.
So how can landlords do to reimagine their post-pandemic workspaces of the future to meet the evolving demands of the workforce?
Welcoming input from stakeholders is a good place to start. Having multiple perspectives on what can and won’t work will help create a more fluid system in which offices can be configured to meet varying needs of occupants.
While landlords typically focus on construction and leasing out their offices, they should consider how the structure of their space can enable employees to do their best work.
Management services also need to be digitized to create a more user-friendly experience. Using Proptech tools that allow users to easily access information, pay fees or book a space makes for a more seamless experience.
Overall, suppliers of office space need to shift their focus on how to promote a healthy work atmosphere that reflects the values and needs of its users.