The phrase ‘flexible working’ is present on a majority of job adverts these days, where something previously considered a ‘perk’ has evolved into a standard part of the working world. The pandemic has changed a large number of things about the way we work and this is a key area. Employers are now realising that a more flexible approach can be a positive for both employees and themselves, but a more flexible workplace is going to be needed if you’re going to effectively run a business with flexible working.
What is a flexible workspace?
A flexible workspace means organising an office layout that maximises the use of space and adapts to a wider range of working situations.
As an example, not every employee will need their own full time desk. Those working in the office every day might need their own desk as a permanent place to work consistently. However, those adopting a more hybrid approach with a mix of remote working and office-based work, might be able to use a ‘hot desk’ approach.
Some standard types of flexible office spaces include open-plan concepts, hotdesking areas for hybrid workers, ‘quiet zones’ and meeting zones, and the ability to make use of shared resources such as printers, and presentation equipment quickly and easily. Most of these layouts mean that super-fast WiFi is even more of a must-have for a business.
How to create a flexible workplace
Initial questions to ask yourself include who will need their own permanent desk and who won’t – so who works full time in the office and who is a hybrid worker. For those that won’t how often will hybrid workers be coming in and therefore, will shared desks or hotdesking be more appropriate?
What sort of environment will each employee or department need? For example, some would benefit from a noisier more collaborative feel whilst others might need it to be quieter for concentration and attention to detail.
Knowing all of this means you can map out your new, flexible workplace with the right amount of space for all departments to meet all needs. Run your plan past all key stakeholders because whilst you’re never going to make everyone happy, they might see a better way to work you hadn’t considered. Once you’re confident the new layout will work, plan the move and get the wider team involved.
Looking to rent an office in Surrey?
If you’re looking to create a flexible workplace in Surrey, get in touch with the team at SEND Business Centre for more information about our office spaces for rent as well as our new location Tannery Studios.
