Don’t be scared of Millennials — they’re here to help. Meet them halfway with your office furniture.
Today’s younger generation, known as Generation Y, or more commonly as Millennials, is taking the workforce by storm. Born between the early 80’s and early 2000’s, these folks now account for nearly half of today’s workforce, and project to be the definitive majority by 2020. With that in mind, it’s time to start turning office interior design to focus on this new wave of workers. They bring a new-found type of dedication, creativity, and collaboration to the workplace — let’s see how we can help you adapt your office space for millennials.
Creativity and Collaboration
One of the most unique characteristics of the Millennial generation is that they work much more creatively and collaboratively than generations before them. Whereas their parents may have prefered the quiet isolation of cubicles or secluded offices, these employees will relish teamwork and want to solve problems together and in new, innovative ways. Providing an open layout with plenty of areas to gather, brainstorm, and work will help those creative ideas flow freely. That being said, this isn’t a definitive, all-encompassing rule. Everyone works differently, so it’s commonly advised to offer a variety of working environments to make sure everyone is comfortable and productive.
Tech Integration
Perhaps the most defining trait about Millennials, both in and out of the workplace, is that they love their technology. Smartphones, tablets, and laptops, and technology in general are this generation’s lifeblood. Not only are they comfortable behind it, they also often understand it better than older generations because they grew up with it — it’s second nature to them. Use this to your advantage in incorporating technology into your office and ensuring that there are plenty of outlets near workstations to keep everyone plugged in.
Give the People What They Want
Lastly, Millennials highly value their time and well-being. Work-life balance is hugely important to them, as is their physical and mental health. Showing them that you care about those things too will help them feel appreciated and motivated. Comfortable, ergonomic furniture will help with the physical, while break spaces are helpful in giving them a space to escape from work for a few minutes during the day. Some of the best ideas come when you’re not thinking about work, anyway!
Millennials are a whole new animal compared to generations that preceded them. They’re unique in many ways, but regardless of your opinion about them, they’re coming for the workplace en force. Gear your office space for Millennials to get the most out of them.
Building Your Office Space for Millennials with Mark Downs
Want to get started with Mark Downs? Search our website for office furniture pieces or stop into our showroom, located conveniently in Cockeysville. Have a specific question? Call us today at 410-771-6800 to speak to a trained staff member. You can also follow Mark Downs Office Furniture today on Pinterest, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter!