The role of the office is evolving. What was once a place to simply ‘get work done’ is now transforming into a social space that promotes connection, learning, and employee wellbeing. Could organizations draw inspiration from the hospitality industry by treating employees as valued guests?
These were the topics of the panel discussion with Werner Aisslinger, David Kulen, Anke Otterbeck and Jason Steere. The four panelists shared their experiences with moderator Robert Thiemann. Jason Steere talked about his experience of integrating co-working spaces into hotels. According to the brand strategist, not everything worked from the start. But in the end it is all about creating a sense of community and bringing different cultures together. Anke Otterbeck told how the Handelsblatt publishing house no longer holds customer seminars and conferences in large hotels, but in its own premises. The facility manager said that although this means restrictions for colleagues, the offices are fuller on such days because many employees appreciate the atmosphere and also benefit from what is on offer. Werner Aisslinger emphasised that all areas of life and work are changing and boundaries are disappearing. When it comes to concept development and design, the focus is on storytelling and generating enthusiasm. However, the hospitality industry can offer much stronger stimuli than offices, where people spend long periods of time. David Kulen added the aspect of a well-thought-out food and beverage offer to the discussion. It is important to know the people you want to reach and then gradually change established standards.
A detailed report on the wide-ranging discussion will be available in the IBA Forum Newsroom in August.
Photo: © IBA
