JLL unveils findings from its recent real estate forum in Bangkok - Workplace Evolution: People and Space
Hybrid work arrangements are popular, thanks to their significant contribution to increased employee satisfaction by offering a balance of flexibility and in-office collaboration. Whilst companies believe that hybrid work models are becoming a long-lasting trend, many are trying to promote more in-office work that supports employee collaboration and corporate culture better. JLL shares observations and findings from its recent real estate forum 'Workplace Evolution: People and Space'
Attended by over 120 C-suite executives, HR leaders, facility managers, and workplace strategists from leading local and international companies in Bangkok, the event featured a panel discussion by JLL with representatives from Baker & McKenzie, Microsoft and Shell, along with live polls for the attendees.
The discussion revealed that hybrid work models remain prevalent as companies believe the models help retain and attract employees. This was reaffirmed by the poll results -- 76% of the respondents said their organisations allow employees to work remotely 1-2 days a week. However, though a growing number of companies are now favoring more in-office work, employers find it challenging to encourage employees back to offices.
Among many workplace strategies that companies deploy to make the office a preferred workplace is to provide collaboration spaces designed to foster teamwork and interaction among employees. Beyond traditional meeting rooms, collaboration spaces come in diverse forms, from an office lobby, an open space with comfortable sofas and a coffee area to a library. These spaces offer flexible and adaptable environments that encourage communication, idea sharing, and joint problem-solving. They often include features like comfortable seating, whiteboards, and technology to support various collaborative activities, from informal brainstorming to structured meetings.
Attracting employees back to offices is not only about promoting collaboration. But it is also about people wellbeing. Employee wellbeing has in fact become a key component of today's people-centric workplace, according to the panel discussion. More employers realize that employee wellbeing that encompasses physical, mental and social health, leads to increased productivity, improved talent attraction and retention, and a more positive work environment. Results from JLL's polls results show 40% of the respondents said their workplace dedicates 10% or more of space to wellness areas such as a fitness room, a meditation room, a mother's room and nature-inspired space, JLL's observations suggest that the percentage should be much higher among most of the newer generation workplaces where wellbeing amenities are become a must-have component.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) is another aspect that was put the spotlight. The consensus is that by valuing diverse perspectives, ensuring equitable opportunities, and creating an inclusive culture, organizations can attract and retain top talent, improve employee wellbeing, and enable the company to serve a wider range of clients. However, only 26% of the poll respondents said their workplace fully incorporates inclusive designs such as prayer rooms or accessible paths, 41% saw the value in DEI but faltered in execution. Nonetheless, it is expected that the trend of companies incorporating DEI in their corporate culture and, consequently, workplaces to grow as public awareness of DEI is on the rise.
Whist success of hybrid work models relies a lot on workplace technology that enables and supports remote work, facilitates communication and collaboration, and maintains productivity, technology also plays a crucial role in attracting employees to the office. Many companies incorporate different tech-tools that help employees work better more happily in the office. These include, for example, ultrafast broadband, video conferencing facilities and booking systems, ergonomic furniture, air quality monitoring and automatic temperature control systems.
Thananun Ruengveeravich, Head of Leasing at JLL, said "In today's increasingly competitive landscape, the workplace has evolved into a strategic differentiator and businesses must leverage every available resource to create meaningful competitive advantages out of it to attract talents, Expressing the value that organizations uphold, such as prioritizing well-being, commitment to sustainability, and equality for diverse individuals, To ensure their workplaces are futureproof, companies require a holistic strategy that integrates employee experience, operational efficiency, and business goals for not only today but also tomorrow. As the way of working has continued to evolve, the workplace journey is about adaptation, not perfection."
"The shift toward employee-centric workplaces is fundamentally changing how our clients evaluate their long-term office strategies in the Bangkok's market," said James Haigh-Lumby, Head of Tenant Representation at JLL. "As companies are realizing offices must deliver experiences employees can't replicate at home, they are no longer just seeking cost-effective space. They are investing in environments that combine thoughtful design and strategic location choices and can demonstrably improve retention and attract top talent."
Caption: From left to right: Khun Sorachon Boonsong, Partner, Baker & McKenzie; Khun Vasupon Thankakan, Chief Operating Officer, Microsoft; Khun Ornuthai Na Chiangmai, Chief Executive Officer, Shell; Khun Thananun Ruengveeravich, Head of Leasing, JLL; Khun Wit Sittivaekin, Moderator.