The Difference A Space Can Make

Posted about 6 years ago

The Difference A Space Can Make?

In this month?s recruiter magazine, Guy Hayward spoke about the importance of a challenging working environment to engage our recruiters, but also the importance of an inspirational work space. The cosmetic appearance and design of a workspace, whilst seemingly low on the priorities list for both employers and employees, has actually been coined as an instrumental factor to increased productivity. The ?Skills and Employment Survey 2017? highlights the stagnant levels of activity within the UK workforce, highlighting that we need to implement changes swiftly to revitalise a dormant sector of economical growth.

As a graduate of Architecture, though not pursued beyond a Bachelors Degree this topic is one that I can relate to. Often I attended lectures where slides of precedence?s displayed many office spaces that had been re-imagined and creating visual pleasing and stimulating interior spaces. When Class People moved from the grade 2 listed building on Imperial Square to the beautiful views of the 7^th Floor of Eagle Tower, not only was the space better suited for our companies purpose and functionality but moreover candidate attraction peaked; for both internal recruits and contractors. This change of address was a pivotal moment in the business history of Class People, catapulting the local education recruitment agency into a larger network of local independent businesses of Gloucestershire. For me personally it offered the opportunity to flex my artistic flair in creating a work environment that epitomised the brand as well as offering greater suitability.

At this point in time Class People had a strong signature and brand in both colours and logo; with juxtaposed colour palette of fuchsia pink and lime green, accompanied by a distinct man with his book in hand. Therefore the working space should also reflect the brand; que; banners outlining the core values of Class People, branded furniture, break out spaces and spotted carpets. Whilst I recognise none of these features would directly add value to the company they do however create an environment that employees can be proud of and look forward to coming to work. With the focus on employee engagement and enjoyment in work then of course the aesthetics do play their role too. I am not saying the space here in Class People is as quirky as the treehouse office space of Mind Candy, or of other innovative companies like Airbnb and Dropbox but Class People?s office space does hold a certain characteristics of school-like appearance, a fun, animated interior environment that goes so far to epitomise the sector within which we work by means of class room displays and interactive whiteboards.

We deem to promote a clean desk policy; a common challenge in any recruitment company, but in doing so also enables flexibility in desk positions that creates a dynamic working environment where best practise can be shared easily through desk side coaching. I commonly express to the consultants that how they treat the space that they work in is an equal representation of the care at which they will take of their candidates and clients.

Other key features of the office space that commonly consultants say is the reason they most enjoy coming to work is the expansive views over the Cotswolds from the 7^th Floor (though as ever with inner towns, car parking is always a challenge,) and the natural light; recognisably creating many health and well being benefits for those who spend many hours in offices. From a managerial point of view the open plan space further enables the sharing of best practice and for me to know what is happening at any given time to offer coaching to trainees actively and on the job.

Now approaching five years in Eagle Tower, Class People have evolved into an iconic recruitment company within the tower and Gloucestershire Business Community, when we first opened our doors in 2013 at the tower, our office refurb featured in many marketing pieces. This created a sense of pride, adding to the story of growth and success of Class People. With many well accomplished individuals and company success displayed on the walls, act as a constant reminder and motivation to the existing consultants of what can be achieved through teamwork and dedication.

All of these factors culminated in the recognition last year in winning ?The Best Place To Work? at the IRP awards and with the focus on developing individuals to grow our own heroes we look to next weeks awards as finalist in ?Best Company for Training and Development? with great anticipation for success. Follow here to see the place that due to the time spent here is like a second home https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xFK5IWtnszM .

For Teachers

Whether you are seeking a long-term career appointment, flexible teaching supply work or early years work, supply teaching recruitment agency Class People's consultants are on hand to find just the role you are looking for.

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By teaming up with Class People, you’ll have direct access to the very best Early Years and Nursery Practitioners, Primary and Secondary teachers, SEN professionals, Teaching Assistants and tutors, supply teachers and non-educational staff.