Workplace design: Occupancy and the war for talent

Unispace’s Joanne Morris, Head of Design and Delivery, Asia and Dr. Reen Salleh, Head of Workplace Strategy, Planning & Experience at HP, APJ, discussed the impact of the office on talent at CoreNet’s Global APAC summit in Kuala Lumpur.

Employee engagement: Magnets vs. mandates

The session explored the nuances of adopting a hybrid work model by leveraging data from our Returning for Good report collected from over 9,500 employees and 6,600 employers globally. As organizations navigate office attendance mandates and their implications for employees and employers alike, it’s no surprise that some days are busier than others, fuelling debates on whether a four-day workweek is the answer to attract and retain top talent.  

So, how can organizations navigate the office attendance dilemma? The answer lies in cultivating a magnetic workplace culture that employees value.

Magnetic workplaces:

• Provide enhanced amenities
• Builds community
• Support flexibility and hybrid work
• Offer in-person mentoring opportunities
• Create incentives and experiences that employees value

Workplace design the supports multiple generations and the environment

As the influx of Gen Z reshapes the workforce, companies are recalibrating their workplace strategy. 31% of firms have improved their workplace design by adding more hospitality spaces. Another 28% have updated meeting rooms and breakout areas, highlighting a shift towards collaborative and flexible work environments. 30% have also noted adding more sustainable elements—reflecting a growing emphasis on environmental stewardship as a recruitment driver.

Dr. Reen shed light on HP's forward-thinking workplace model, anchored on the ethos of "keep inventing," "culture of innovation," and "growth mindset." This vision comes to life through HP’s four foundational principles: choice, innovation, community, and wellness.

Reimagining workplace strategy and design to shape employee engagement and productivity

HP’s new workplace saw a significant rise in occupancy throughout the workweek, exceeding 30% on weekdays, including Friday. Such a striking occupancy in today’s hybrid world prompts an exploration of workplace design’s impact on employee engagement and occupancy rates. It underscores the intricate relationship between physical workspace environments and employee behavior, emphasizing the need for strategic design interventions to optimize productivity and satisfaction.