If your office furniture was made in the 80’s, 90’s, or even just ten years ago, listen up.
Because if you’re planning on hiring and retaining Millennials, the time for an office furniture upgrade has arrived.
According to Statistics Canada, Millennials (born 1980-1996 approximately) make up the largest percentage of the Canadian work force – larger than Baby Boomers (born 1946-1964) or Generation X (born 1965-1980). And they are of course, going to make up an increasingly larger percentage during the next number of years.
What’s this got to do with office furniture? Read on and let me explain.
Are you Impression-Blind?
Many times businesses simply get used to their old furniture, not thinking about the impression and branding message it sends. However, the fresh eyes of a potential employee will immediately notice.
Attracting the best people maximizes productivity and the bottom line of any business. And first impressions last. So when a potential Millennial hire steps through your front door, will they think “This business is cutting edge and exciting!” or will they think “This place is old and outdated”?
Old Office Furniture Is Boring
Here’s the deal. Millennials (just like every other generation) have different wants and needs. They want their workplace to look and feel modern and successful – the way they want to view themselves. As opposed to ancient, dreary and blah.
Open Spaces And Collaboration
Unlike Baby Boomers who prefer privacy, Millennials prefer openness and collaboration. Open spaces in your office make Millennials feel included in the team and give social connection. Plus, wide open space helps refresh the mind, giving welcome distraction during times of focused work.
Providing tables or casual furniture like couches gives your team an opportunity to casually discuss their work. Older workers may see this as just wasted time sitting and chatting. But, Millennials use this time for group dialogue, working out whatever they are tasked to do, by seeking input from others.
Height-Adjustable Work Stations Preferred
Ergonomists and health professionals talk about the benefits of adjustable workstations. They say that workers are more productive if only they could stand once in a while.
Millennials are very conscientious about their health and body image. Which is why sit/stand workstations have become so popular.
Take a look at this:
Reduce risk of obesity – A Mayo Clinic study says a person could lose 5.5 pounds just by standing for a few hours while working instead of sitting.
Reduce work related stress – Stress brings on many illnesses and injury to our bodies. Movement and freedom of work style reduces stress, possibly saving lost time and health benefit claims.
That’s just 2 reasons for an office furniture upgrade to sit/stand worksurfaces. Millennials look for healthy design in their workplace to enhance their lives and work time enjoyment. “Am I giving my life to this employer? Then they need to appreciate my health and well-being.”
Do your offices need modernizing?
Our atWork team helps businesses choose furniture and designs that reflect the brand and culture they want to promote.
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