Amenities Race is on to Recruit Talent, Tenants

DALLAS—C-level executives are stepping outside traditions to recruit and retain employees, especially Millennials and Gen Zers. Recruiting and retaining top talent is no easy feat, especially in highly competitive cities where companies are relocating in droves. While large salaries and unlimited time off are a few variables that can provide an edge, companies are turning to trendy office spaces and amenities to provide a competitive edge. In this exclusive, NAI Robert Lynn’s James Davis, vice president, office division, and Tom Lynn, chairman, president, office division, recently discussed the top trends emerging as companies look to relocate or redesign space.

GlobeSt.com: What are the different factors to consider in an office space/?

Davis: Walkability, workout center, conference room, Wi-Fi lounges, just to name a few. These aren’t just nice features, they are highly sought after and expected today. Our on-demand culture wants convenience and accessibility, whether it’s squeezing in a quick workout over lunch, taking a stroll along a jogging trail or walking to nearby shops for lunch, a place to meditate or post-work happy hour.

GlobeSt.com: Is the open concept still on trend?

Lynn: Yes. With rising rent prices, executives have found they can offset the rapidly rising rental costs by fitting more employees into an open space rather than providing individual offices. However, it’s always good to take a pulse on what works best for your office, employees and corporate culture before making final decisions.

GlobeSt.com: What other new or emerging trends have you seen?

Davis: Decision makers are looking for key amenities when it comes to the functionality of their space. For instance, executives want to be able to rent a conference room downstairs for the few times they’ll actually need it versus paying for it in their lease space. There are many options now that have conference rooms that seat up to 150 people with video conferencing and tenant lounges that are decked out Wi-Fi access, coffee bars, wet bars and putting greens.

GlobeSt.com: How can offices bring the cool factor?

Lynn: The sky is the limit when it comes to creating fun spaces for employees, and businesses will do just about anything to be perceived as cool and collaborative. Offices are painting fresh, colorful rooms and decking them out with funky furniture, scoreboards that project daily sales, pool tables, ping pong tables and even slot machines. Espresso machines are replacing standard Keurigs and TVs are lining the walls. The lunch area is no longer a dark room where you go and sit by yourself. It’s a place where people sit on stools with contemporary lighting and glass railings so they can engage with others while listening to their favorite tunes. Oftentimes, the lunch area has the best views in the whole space.

GlobeSt.com: When and how should businesses start looking for a new space?

Davis: Yesterday … seriously, it’s never too early to start looking. In a tight market where options can be limited, it’s crucial to get advice about the hidden opportunities in the market from an expert who can help paint the picture of a space’s potential. If you’re looking for a new office space, begin as soon as possible, up to two years before your lease expires. The extra time will enable you to make the best decision for your company and ultimately stand apart from other businesses.