Attracting and retaining top talent in today’s landscape requires more than just offering a high salary. For large enterprises, success hinges on creating a workplace that resonates with the values and priorities of modern professionals. Innovation, flexibility, collaboration tools, a focus on employee well-being, opportunities for growth, and a well-designed workplace are now critical components of a compelling work environment.
With remote and hybrid work environments becoming the norm, enterprises must rethink their office spaces and workplace culture to meet these new expectations. Those who prioritize a holistic employee experience will not only attract top-tier candidates but also promote long-term loyalty and productivity. Here’s what the cream-of-the-crop job seekers are looking for in prospective employers.
Top priorities of job seekers
Organizations that are always innovating
In large enterprises, continuous innovation is not just a goal but a necessity to attract and retain best-in-class talent. These organizations foster a culture where creativity and innovation are at the forefront, encouraging employees to think outside the box and bring forward new ideas. This dynamic environment keeps the workforce engaged and motivated, knowing that their contributions directly impact the company’s progress and success.
Technology-enhanced workplaces
Beyond collaboration tools, enterprises should invest in cutting-edge technology that enhances overall employee experience. This includes smart building technology, AI-powered tools for predictive space planning, and wellness tools that track and improve employee health.
Offering modern, technology-driven solutions in the workplace demonstrates the company’s forward-thinking culture and commitment to providing employees with the best resources to succeed. Embracing innovations like workspace booking tools, virtual collaboration platforms, and data analytics also showcases adaptability, a key trait that resonates with high-caliber professionals.
Environments where transparency is touted
Transparency within the workplace builds trust and a sense of community. According to PwC’s 2024 Trust Survey, only 67% of employees feel they highly trust their employers.
Large enterprises that prioritize open communication about company policies, changes, and decisions create an atmosphere where employees feel valued and informed. This openness not only enhances employee engagement but also fosters a strong alignment with the company’s goals and values, making it a desirable place to work.
Flexible working
Flexible work arrangements are one of the top considerations for candidates, so organizations have a responsibility to take a clear stance on this and how they help their employees do their best work. Engaging employees in decision-making about flexible work arrangements ensures that the options offered align with their expectations, increasing satisfaction.
Offering diverse work arrangements, from fully remote to hybrid models, caters to different preferences and can lead to higher employee satisfaction and productivity.
A focus on employee well-being
An empowered workplace offers support for mental health and well-being, which is vital as it helps employees feel cared for and reduces stress, improving retention. Large enterprises are increasingly recognizing the importance of their employees’ health, offering programs that promote work-life balance, fitness, mental health, and overall wellness.
Sustainability and environmental responsibility
Environmental sustainability has become a critical concern for many professionals, especially millennials and Gen Z. Companies that adopt green initiatives, reduce their carbon footprint, and promote environmentally friendly policies can stand out as employers of choice.
For example, integrating energy-efficient building systems and promoting remote work as a means to reduce emissions can significantly appeal to eco-conscious candidates. Highlighting these efforts in recruitment campaigns will resonate with talent looking to align with organizations committed to making a positive impact on the environment.
Opportunities for growth
Empowered workplaces foster ambition by offering robust in-person training and development opportunities, which are often more effective than remote learning. This approach helps employees feel that their careers are progressing, which is vital for retention. Companies that invest in their employees’ growth and provide clear pathways for advancement are more likely to retain exceptional employees.
A well-designed workplace
The look, feel and setup of your workplace also has an impact on potential candidates’ perceptions of you as an employer. Decor, comfort, and ambiance allow you to showcase your company culture, but how physical workspaces are set up is also essential to attracting candidates who value flexibility and innovation.
Just as candidates value flexible work arrangements, they might also prefer more fluid work environments, such as open seating and collaboration areas. These types of openly designed areas are essential to encourage communication and onsite collaboration, which also impacts productivity and innovation.
Space planning software is a vital tool for designing workplaces that attract and retain these kinds of candidates. By optimizing the use of available space, these tools enhance employee experience and satisfaction. This data-driven approach allows organizations to make informed decisions about workspace design, ensuring that the physical office space aligns with the company’s culture and employee expectations.
By creating a well-designed, efficient, and comfortable workplace, organizations can improve employee engagement, productivity, and ultimately, retention of the best talent.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives
Top talent, especially from younger generations, increasingly prioritize working for companies that champion diversity, equity, and inclusion. Enterprises should communicate their commitment to DEI by implementing initiatives that promote equal opportunities, foster an inclusive culture, and create spaces where all voices are valued.
Research from Glassdoor shows that 76% of job seekers and employees report that a diverse workforce is an important factor when evaluating companies and job offers. Highlighting DEI policies in recruitment efforts can help attract a broader pool of highly qualified candidates and increase employee retention.
Beyond the paycheck: Crafting a workplace of choice
Once you’ve incorporated these factors into your perks and compensation package, make sure you’re promoting and communicating about them in your job descriptions, careers section of your website, and other outbound communications to attract the best talent to your company.
Stand out in the job hunter’s market by offering a world-class workplace. Find out more about Eptura’s integrated worktech platform today.
By Gabi Bellairs-Lombard
Gabi is a London-based writer with 8 years of experience in copywriting and strategy across various verticals. She has been immersed in tech for two years, previously writing for a fintech company. Her specialities lie in long- and short-form writing, SEO writing and strategy, and market research. In her current role at Eptura, she covers the latest worktech and workplace experience trends.
