Hootsuite’s Redesigned Workplace: A Paradigm Shift in Employee-Centric Design

Key Takeaways

• **Employee-Centric Design:** Hootsuite prioritized employee preferences, well-being, and inclusivity in its reimagined office space, leading to improved employee engagement and productivity.
• **Hybrid Work Model:** Hootsuite embraced the hybrid work model, allowing employees to choose their work environment, reducing stress, and promoting a healthier work-life balance.
• **Culture of Empathy and Belonging:** Hootsuite cultivated a culture of empathy, belonging, and inclusivity through flexible work arrangements, access to mental health counseling, and a focus on work-life balance, resulting in a positive and supportive work environment.

Imagine a workspace where employees feel invigorated, engaged, and connected, not just to their work, but to each other and to their overall well-being. This is the vision Hootsuite, a leading social media management platform, brought to life with its reimagined office space.

A Space Reimagined: Hootsuite’s Employee-Centric Approach

Hootsuite embarked on a journey to reimagine its workspace, prioritizing employee preferences, well-being, and inclusivity. Through extensive surveys, the company discovered that 89% of its Vancouver-based employees desired a hybrid work model, blending office and remote work. This insight sparked the creation of “nests” – collaborative office spaces designed to foster teamwork and innovation.

Flexible Work Environments: Embracing the Hybrid Model

Hootsuite embraced the hybrid work model, providing employees the flexibility to choose their work environment. Whether it’s working from home, in the office, or a combination of both, employees are empowered to find the balance that suits their needs. This flexibility reduces stress, enhances work-life integration, and promotes a healthier work-life balance.

Employee Well-being: A Culture of Empathy and Belonging

Hootsuite recognized the importance of mental health and well-being in the workplace. The company offers a comprehensive range of benefits and resources to cultivate a culture of empathy, belonging, and inclusivity. Flexible work arrangements, access to mental health counseling, and a focus on work-life balance contribute to reducing stress and anxiety, fostering a positive and supportive work environment.

Vancouver Headquarters: A Space Designed for Connection and Creativity

Hootsuite’s Vancouver headquarters underwent a remarkable transformation, consolidating two offices into a single 27,000 square foot space. The new office features spacious communal areas, promoting teamwork, creativity, and a sense of community. Exercise bike desks, sit-stand desks, and a dedicated Wellness Room further emphasize the company’s commitment to employee well-being.

Thoughtful Design: Enhancing Focus and Inclusivity

Hootsuite’s office design incorporates thoughtful touches that enhance focus and inclusivity. Dimmable lighting in meeting rooms optimizes comfort, while gender-inclusive washrooms and braille signage demonstrate the company’s commitment to accessibility. The floorplans were meticulously reviewed by a DEI consultant, ensuring that the space accommodates diverse needs and promotes a welcoming environment for all.

Putting DEI in Design: Attracting and Retaining Diverse Talent

Hootsuite’s design philosophy emphasizes inclusivity and accessibility, attracting diverse candidates and fostering an inclusive culture. Automatic door openers, gender-inclusive washrooms, and braille signage are just a few examples of the company’s commitment to creating a welcoming and supportive environment. These design elements contribute to a sense of belonging and empowerment for all employees.

Good Ergonomics: A Healthy Workforce is a Productive Workforce

Recognizing the impact of prolonged sitting on physical health, Hootsuite equipped its office with sit-stand desks, adjustable monitor arms, and ergonomic chairs. These thoughtful additions address the increased sitting time during the pandemic and its potential consequences. By prioritizing good ergonomics, Hootsuite ensures a healthier and more productive workforce.

Biophilic Design: Nature’s Positive Impact on Well-being

Hootsuite incorporated biophilic design principles, bringing plants and greener spaces into the office environment. Studies have shown that proximity to nature can reduce stress, anxiety, and improve overall well-being. By incorporating plants and natural elements, Hootsuite creates a healthier and more calming work environment, promoting employee well-being and productivity.

Inclusivity Breeds Inclusivity: A Diverse and Equitable Workplace

Hootsuite’s commitment to inclusivity extends beyond physical design. The company actively works to create a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment where everyone feels safe, welcomed, and valued. Redesigned benefits packages include culturally appropriate counseling, increased mental health coverage, and pay equity, demonstrating Hootsuite’s dedication to fostering an inclusive and supportive workplace culture.

Using an App for Space Reservation: Managing Hybrid Work Effectively

Hootsuite implemented the Robin Booking System to manage hybrid work and allow employees to reserve office space in advance. This system ensures fair access to office space and helps maintain a limited capacity of 15%, complying with local guidelines and promoting social distancing. The app streamlines the process of reserving workspace, making it convenient for employees to plan their hybrid work schedules.

Bonus: Hootsuite’s reimagined office space has garnered widespread recognition for its innovative design and commitment to employee well-being. The company’s focus on creating a space that caters to diverse employee needs and promotes physical and mental well-being sets an example for the future of work. Hootsuite’s journey to reimagine its workspace serves as an inspiration for organizations looking to create workplaces that prioritize employee well-being, inclusivity, and flexibility.

In the words of Hootsuite’s CEO, Tom Keiser, “Our new office is a testament to our commitment to creating a workplace that supports our employees’ well-being and empowers them to do their best work. We believe that a happy and healthy workforce is a productive workforce, and we’re excited to see the positive impact this new space will have on our employees and our business.”