What if the secret to recruiting top talent, unlocking innovation and engaging employees wasn’t found inside your office but by heading outdoors? Purpose-built, work-ready outdoor space is more than a nice “bonus.” Leading-edge companies are unlocking the true value of work-ready outdoor space as an innovation and creativity driver, a recruitment and retention tool, a community builder, and an employee wellness booster. Here’s why outdoor workspace is essential– and how to maximize its ROI:
The Benefit: Recruit and retain star performers
What to look for in a workplace:
Top talent wants outdoor access: the opportunity to work outside or even take a short break is a critical offering. The outdoor space at The Launch, for example, offers shaded workstations with comfortable lounge furniture and WiFi connectivity.
How this drives business success:
In a survey of California decision makers, 90% of respondents say outdoor space improves their daily quality of life and increases satisfaction with their employer. Outdoor workspace is also critical for retaining young professionals in leadership positions. These rising stars say outdoor workspace is the second most important workplace feature, right behind on-site food.
The Benefit: Spark innovation and creativity
What to look for in a workplace:
Look for spaces that foster collaboration, community and productivity. At Newport Gateway, for example, a Wifi-connected open-air pavilion and outdoor gathering space complement the popular putting green and lounge, bringing the entire workplace community together.
How this drives business success:
Fresh air, fresh ideas. Bringing together people who ordinarily wouldn’t interact in a comfortable, casual environment creates opportunities for the serendipitous moments that spark innovation, creativity and growth.
The Benefit: Host dynamic events without leaving the workplace
What to look for in a workplace:
Event-ready outdoor space provides companies with the opportunity to host everything from casual happy hours to pitch nights to employee training to product demos– without ever leaving the workplace. Workplaces like Jamboree Center offer indoor-outdoor connectivity between traditional conferencing spaces and outdoor event venues, making it easy to transition from a presentation to happy hour.
How this drives business success:
Hosting events on site is not only cost-effective but also a boost for turnout, since employees don’t have to travel anywhere to attend.
The Benefit: Boost employee wellness
What to look for in a workplace:
Outdoor space is an opportunity to reset and reconnect with coworkers outside the traditional office environment. Depending on company culture and employee needs, this space could be a shaded outdoor patio with a grill and TV or a lounge space with a quiet water feature and comfortable, casual furniture like Pacific Arts Plaza.
How this drives business success:
Stress costs businesses as much as $300 billion annually in lost productivity. Workplaces where employees spend as little as 10 minutes per day outdoors are positively correlated with lower stress levels and fewer employee health issues. Employees who take regular breaks are better able to process information, make strategic decisions, and respond to crises– the exact skills needed to be productive in today’s knowledge economy.
The Benefit: Break down barriers for connection
What to look for in a workplace:
Effective outdoor workspace pulls people out of their everyday routine, creating new opportunities for team building. The Commons at Irvine Towers, for example, functions as the center of the workplace community. Teams come together to play a competitive ping pong game, to enjoy lunch from rotating food trucks, or to relax by the fire pit for happy hour.
How this drives business success:
It’s easy to fall into a stale workday routine. Outdoor workspace pulls people out of their offices, strengthening coworker bonds and boosting camaraderie. These are the strong team connections that keep top talent engaged and invested in your business success.
Taking ownership of how your workplace impacts an employee’s quality of life and their employer satisfaction can have a ripple effect at all levels of your organization, driving productivity, engagement and business success.
