Office enviroments must cater to different generations to be effective

The most important topic on the minds of my clients is the ability to attract and retain the best talent for their organization. Today we have 5 generations in the workforce. More than one-in-three American workers today are Millennials (adults ages 18 to 34 in 2015), and this year they surpassed Generation X to become the largest share of the American workforce, according to new Pew Research Center analysis of U.S. Census Bureau data.

It is important to understand how the different generations work most efficiently and collaborate in the workforce. I have found that there is not one solution that fits every company's needs. It is important to design a space that is unique to your specific company culture and workforce. That will involve listening to your workforce and incorporating as many of their ideas as possible into the design. Most companies understand their most important asset is their people and when they feel engaged they will produce better results, feel appreciated and be more loyal employees. We know how expensive and disruptive it is to hire and train.

Your company may have different mixes of generations in your office. Each generation has environments that make them the most comfortable and productive. Baby boomers work their career to get to the corner office and a big pay raise. Millennials look at a private office as a jail sentence and are most excited about having the latest iPad or technology platform. Today what is important is to have many types of areas that allow everyone to find a place to work that fits their comfort zone to get the best results from their efforts. Collaboration areas with soft seating or standing tables near windows allow for quick meetings without walls and doors. Large break rooms or "water cooler" areas allow for team building and create a safe environment to build deeper relationships with co-workers. If innovation is important to your success, your team needs to feel comfortable sharing ideas in a setting where they trust their co-workers.

Keeping the workforce healthy by providing correct lighting and ergonomic options along with sit/stand desking options is crucial. Health professionals describe sitting all day at work as destructive as smoking to our health. For that reason we are always talking to our clients about workstations and/or meeting tables that articulate from sitting height to standing height. Other ergonomic devices like monitor arms, LED task lighting and multifunction task chairs are important elements in a safe workplace design.

You only have one chance to make a first impression with your clients and potential hires. Your office is making an impression good or bad. Your office tells a story of your culture.

Does your workspace reflect the quality of your service or product? Does your workspace reflect the quality and professionalism of your team? Does your space reflect or support your culture? If not you should consider renovating your space and investing in your team and culture.

Working with a professional designer that specializes in office design is your best resource on designing a new space that reaches all your goals. Listening to your team and utilizing unique elements with an attention to detail will ensure your team stays engaged and produces a space the compliments your culture and the results you are looking for.

• Mike Warren is an account manager for Rieke Office Interiors in Elgin. mwarren@Rieke.com