DALLAS—Recruiting and retaining top talent is no easy feat, especially in a highly competitive city such as Dallas where companies are relocating in droves. While large salaries and unlimited paid time off are a few incentives that can provide an edge, companies are turning to trendy office spaces and amenities to set them apart from competing firms. C-level executives are stepping outside traditional methods to cater to employees, especially millennials, in order to recruit and retain them. In this exclusive, NAI Robert Lynn president Tom Lynn recently discussed the top trends he sees emerging as companies look to relocate or redesign space.

GlobeSt.com: What are the different factors to consider in an office space?

Tom Lynn: Walkability, delis, workout centers, conference rooms, tenant lounges, just to name a few. These aren't just nice features; they are highly sought-after and almost expected today. Our on-demand culture wants convenience and accessibility, whether it's squeezing in a quick workout over lunch, taking a stroll along a jogging trail or walking to nearby shops for lunch or a post-work happy hour.

GlobeSt.com: Is the open-floor concept still on-trend?

Lynn: Yes, it continues to be on trend. With rising rent prices, executives have found they can offset the rapidly rising rental costs by fitting more employees into an open space rather than providing individual offices. Millennials often prefer collaborative work spaces and don't seek the privacy of an office space as previous generations. However, it's always good to take a pulse on what works best for your office, employees and corporate culture before making final decisions.

GlobeSt.com: What other new or emerging trends have you seen?

Lynn: Decision makers are also looking for key amenities when it comes to the functionality of their space. For instance, executives want to be able to rent a conference room downstairs for the few times they'll actually need it versus paying for it in their lease space. There are many options now that have conference rooms that seat up to 150 people with A/V equipment, chairs and tables, and tenant lounges that are decked out with coffee bars, wet bars and putting greens.

GlobeSt.com: How can offices bring the cool factor? How can businesses stand out from the competition?

Lynn: The sky is the limit when it comes to creating fun spaces for employees, and businesses will do just about anything to be perceived as cool and collaborative. Offices are painting fresh, colorful rooms and decking them out with funky furniture, pool tables, ping pong tables and even slot machines. Espresso machines are replacing standard Keurigs and TVs are lining the walls. The lunch area is no longer a dark room where you go and sit by yourself. It's a place where people sit on stools with contemporary lighting and glass railings so they can engage with others while listening to their favorite tunes.

GlobeSt.com: When and how should businesses start looking for a new space?

Lynn: In a tight market where options can be limited, it's crucial to have an expert who knows the hidden opportunities in the market and can help paint the picture of a space's potential. If you're looking for a new office space, reach out to a broker as soon as possible, up to two years before your lease expires. The extra time will enable you to make the best decision for your company and ultimately stand apart from other businesses.

GlobeSt.com: What are the different factors to consider in an office space?

GlobeSt.com: Is the open-floor concept still on-trend?

GlobeSt.com: What other new or emerging trends have you seen?

GlobeSt.com: How can offices bring the cool factor? How can businesses stand out from the competition?

GlobeSt.com: When and how should businesses start looking for a new space?

Instant Insights /

Recruiting and Retaining Top Talent with Office Amenities

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