As hybrid working becomes increasingly the norm in 2024, the traditional company HQ is being transformed. Gone are the days of endless banks of workstations on grey open-plan floors. Whilst there’s no one size fits all, companies all over the world are now opting for collaborative, creative, and social spaces. This shift not only reduces the real estate footprint, but also upgrades the quality of work environments.
At the forefront of this transformation, and the world’s largest provider of hybrid-working solutions, is International Work Group (IWG). Their CEO and Founder Mark Dixon, emphasises the importance of designing spaces that foster collaboration and creativity. “It’s not enough to just ask people to come to a building and assume that they’ll be collaborating or that they’ll be creative,” Dixon says. “Companies that are really focused on driving collaboration are putting money into smaller, high-quality workspaces that are designed to produce an environment in which people can come together effectively and interact and exchange ideas.” Dixon adds that creating an inspiring and fulfilling ‘hybrid hub’ is also important in attracting and retaining top talent at a time when it can be hard to find.
These shared environments offer unique networking opportunities with other businesses and professionals. The connections made here can lead to valuable partnerships, collaborations, and business development that can become a springboard for future success. Networking events within these spaces also provide essential learning and growth opportunities, especially for emerging businesses.
The rise of hybrid working in Australia
This way of working is proving to be incredibly attractive to many Australian start-ups, and it’s easy to see why they’re shifting towards this model. The benefits of hybrid working for growing businesses are clear. Imagine a happier, more focused workforce, with the freedom to work from wherever they want when needed, without sacrificing the collaborative energy of an office environment.
This flexible arrangement offers multiple benefits, primarily fostering a healthier work-life balance. By minimising commute times and offering the convenience of working from home, you can allocate more precious quality time to family, hobbies, or simply recharging. Additionally, the autonomy gained by being able to manage your own schedule can lead to increased productivity, job satisfaction, and overall wellbeing. Strike the right balance and everyone’s a winner.
It’s all backed up by numbers
Furthermore, research indicates that over 30 per cent of workers will adopt hybrid for the long-term. According to the Australian Hybrid Workers Survey by IWG (which includes leading workspace brands Regus and Spaces), 76 per cent of Australian workers have lower stress levels under the hybrid model, and 72 per cent are more productive.
IWG’s extensive research helps us to better understand the impact that more workspace choice has on every worker. An overwhelming 72 per cent of employees reported preferring this flexible approach, even if it meant earning less compared to a traditional office. And 88 per cent cite hybrid work as a top requirement when seeking new jobs, making solutions like Regus crucial for attracting top talent.
“Employees have realised they’ve been wasting time commuting when they don’t need to be in an office,” Mark Dixon, CEO and Founder of IWG. “While businesses recognise a hybrid model means happier, more engaged employees and significant cost savings.” As a result, IWG has seen the demand for top-class flexible workspaces rise rapidly as more organisations embrace hybrid models.
To discover how Regus can help you find a better work-life balance visit regus.com/success
