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A new ‘brand’ of influencers

Inspiring Stories

27 March 2019

A new ‘brand’ of influencers

  • Posted by Awfis Editorial

Are people brands?

The jury is still out on that, but we believe that famous people could be (and are) presented as brands. If they stand for a promise, or perhaps as a personification of a product, a service, an organisation or a belief, individuals can move from being people to brands.

People have personalities, they possess character and they stand for something. The trick is to find that one authentic trait that can transform a person into a brand. Marketing 101 – branding is the process of managing an identity and perception. And the role of the brand manager is to showcase the positive and sometimes not-so-positive traits to help the brand get an advantage in the marketplace.

There are a host of people who have branded themselves well. We’ve chosen the 7 most influential people who have built powerful reputations in the industry, and today are brands by themselves.

Michelle Obama

Let’s open the list with Michelle Obama, a name most popular with people from across the world. Even though she came into the spotlight as the wife of Barack Obama, the 44th President of the United States, she is a well-known personality in her own right. She might have left the White House two years back, but she continues to be a person of influence even today. Her memoir, Becoming, sold 3 million copies by early December and it topped the bestseller list within 15 days of its release. In a poll conducted by Gallop last year, she was selected as the most admired woman in the United States.

If you’ve still not read the book, you can get a snippet here.

Bill Gates

Just the fact the he is the founder of Microsoft gives Bill Gates a permanent spot on the list of influential people. However, the reason we picked him here today is because of his philanthropic side. He and his wife, Melinda Gates have started the Bill & Melinda Foundation that is believed to be the world’s largest private foundation and it holds US$50.7M in assets. That is a lot of funds to help reach the goals of the foundation, which are to reduce poverty and improve healthcare across the world. In the US, the foundation aims to expand educational opportunities and grant greater access to information technology.

Rihanna

Influence isn’t all serious business. And definitely not when you have pop icons like Rihanna on the scene. This Barbados-born artist has 356k followers on Instagram alone and over 59 million on Facebook, and is easily the world’s most influential pop idol. Her success, however, is not limited to her musical prowess. She has also extended her popularity into business and has launched highly successful cosmetics and lingerie brands. Fenty Beauty, that caters to women of colour, has 40 unheard-of shades. The brand promotes diversity not just in offering, but also in its advertising that reminds every woman of colour that she comes from royalty.

Rami Malek

Who doesn’t know Rami Malek today! The actor started out with television where he won an Emmy for his lead role in the psychological drama, Mr. Robot. His international acclaim, however, came with his portrayal of Freddie Mercury, the frontman of the hit 1970s band, Queen. Rami Malek has quite a fan following, with numbers racking up to 600k+ followers on Twitter, nearly 480k on Facebook and a whopping 1m on Instagram. Talk about being influential.

Jeff Bezos

Jeff Bezos has already disrupted the retail industry when he founded the e-commerce company Amazon. But that is old news. Today, he is also making waves in the media world. He purchased the well-respected Washington Post in 2013. The newspaper was on a decline and the world watched with bated breath to see what would happen next. In less than 3 years, the newspaper bounced back and its readership exploded. The reason was simple – its content was more suitable for the digital world and covered the technology sector extensively.

Oprah Winfrey

Oprah Winfrey has always held considerable influence. A successful businesswoman and talk show host, she manages to get more done than we can ever imagine. An actress, a film producer, a philanthropist, and an activist, rumours abound of her intent to run for the presidential election in 2020. If the number of her followers (16m on Instagram alone) is anything to go by, we’d say she has a mighty good chance of being successful there too.

Elon Musk

This list cannot be complete without including the dashing, enterprising CEO of Tesla, Elon Musk. He is admired not just for his billions, but it is his incredible vision and engineering that has got him his, hold your breath, 17.1m Twitter followers! And he also owns SpaceX, a rocket and spacecraft company. Come on, that’s a hands-down winner in our books. Then there is Tesla, his electric car and energy company. And did you know that he has shared the patents for his electric cars with the whole world because he believes these solutions must be available to all to save the planet. Wow!

Conclusion

If we had the space, the list would actually be much longer. We could have spoken about Michael B Jordan, the actor who played Erik Killmonger in ‘Black Panther’, or Lady Gaga, who has more than 77 million followers on Twitter and Greta Gerwig, an actress/director who is making waves in a male-dominated industry.

The list of people who are brands is pretty long. But why don’t you tell us your favourite. And why.

Why Your Next Move Should Be to a Managed Workspace

Inspiring Stories

26 December 2024

Why Your Next Move Should Be to a Managed Workspace

  • Posted by Awfis Editorial

In a quickly changing work environment, organizations are continually looking for new ways to improve productivity, efficiency, and employee satisfaction. One alternative that is gaining traction is the switch to managed office space. As businesses prioritize flexibility, scalability, and a consistent work environment, managed offices emerge as an ideal alternative to traditional settings.

Let’s look at the world of managed workspaces and why switching to one, particularly with Awfis, could be the best decision for your company.

What Are Managed Workspaces?

Managed office spaces are fully serviced, ready-to-go work environments tailored to the unique needs of organizations. Unlike traditional leases, managed workspaces are customizable and adaptable, and cover everything from furniture and IT infrastructure to maintenance and utility management.

Companies that transition to managed offices can avoid the burden of workspace setup and focus only on vital business objectives. Managed office solutions provide the ideal blend of functionality and flexibility for startups, SMEs, and corporations alike.

Advantages of Managed Workspaces

Effortless Integration of Technology

In today’s technology-driven environment, a strong IT infrastructure is unavoidable. Managed workplaces make this easier by providing cutting-edge technology like high-speed internet, smart conferencing systems, and seamless communication.

With a managed office space, you receive access to IT assistance, resulting in less downtime and greater efficiency. Furthermore, you may scale technological resources as your company expands, avoiding expensive infrastructure changes.

Supporting Sustainable Development Goals

Sustainability is no longer a buzzword; it is a priority. Managed offices promote green practices such as energy-efficient buildings, waste management systems, and lower carbon footprints.

Awfis takes this commitment seriously, providing managed workspaces that include eco-friendly activities and promote a better work environment. Choosing a managed office helps your company contribute to global environmental goals and improves its corporate social responsibility reputation.

Facilitating Expansion into New Regions

Finding office space, establishing operations, and managing local restrictions are all common logistical challenges when expanding into new regions. Managed offices alleviate these problems by offering ready-to-go solutions that are suited to your specific requirements.

With Awfis’ pan-India presence, you can easily expand into any city without worrying about the details. A managed office space simplifies the expansion process, saving time and money.

Why Awfis is the Perfect Solution for Managed Workspaces

When it comes to managed office spaces, Awfis stands out as a leader. Here’s why Awfis is the right partner for your business:

  • Customizable Spaces: Awfis offers customized managed workspaces that are designed to suit your brand and operational requirements. Every feature is personalized, from open floor plans to private cabins.
  • Prime Locations: With a large network in key cities, Awfis ensures that you operate from premium locations that increase accessibility and prominence.
  • End-to-End Solutions: Awfis provides end-to-end solutions, including furniture, IT, administration, and even day-to-day maintenance, allowing you to focus on your business.
  • Cost-Effective Plans: The managed office solutions of Awfis are cost-effective, with transparent pricing and flexible terms.
  • Focus on Community: Awfis focuses on community by creating workspaces that encourage collaboration, networking, and creativity, bringing together businesses that share similar values.

With Awfis, you’re getting more than just a workspace; you’re getting a partner who is committed to enhancing your work environment.

FAQs

  1. What makes managed workspaces different from coworking spaces?

Coworking spaces provide shared settings, whereas managed offices are completely dedicated to a single organization. They are personalized, confidential, and incorporate end-to-end management to provide a flawless experience.

  1. How does a managed office space save costs?

Managed office spaces allow organizations to deploy money more efficiently by reducing upfront fees for setup, furniture, IT infrastructure, and upkeep.

  1. Are managed offices suitable for small businesses?

Absolutely! Managed offices are scalable, allowing for organizations of various sizes, from startups to major corporations.

  1. Can I customize a managed workspace?

Yes, customization is an important feature for providers such as Awfis. You can customize the layout, branding, and facilities to meet your specific business requirements.

Sustainable Office Spaces: The Increasing Demand for Sustainable Office Spaces

Inspiring Stories

26 December 2024

Sustainable Office Spaces: The Increasing Demand for Sustainable Office Spaces

  • Posted by Awfis Editorial

The world is changing dramatically, and sustainability is emerging as a driving principle across businesses. The shift to a more environmentally friendly future is changing every aspect of our lives, from our homes to our modes of transportation to the food we eat. Among the numerous industries that are embracing this transformation, workplaces are emerging as key players in promoting environmental awareness. Businesses and workers alike prioritise the environment alongside efficiency, as proven by the rising need for sustainable office spaces.

This shift towards sustainable office spaces is more than a trend; it is a necessary change. Companies that implement sustainability at work not only solve serious environmental issues but also create healthier, more efficient environments for their employees. Let’s look at the reasons for the growing popularity of sustainable workplace practices and how companies are leading the way with office sustainability initiatives.

Why Sustainability at Work Matters More Than Ever

As environmental concerns become more urgent, the role of workplaces in reducing carbon footprints has come under scrutiny. Offices are energy-intensive, consuming large amounts of electricity, water, and other resources daily. Traditional setups often lead to unnecessary waste, from single-use plastics to excessive energy usage.

Embracing sustainability in office environments is no longer optional—it’s a moral and practical imperative. Here’s why:

  1. Environmental Impact

    A sustainable office reduces waste, minimizes energy consumption, and promotes eco-friendly practices. This directly combats climate change by cutting greenhouse gas emissions.

     

  2. Employee Well-being

    A workplace designed with sustainable workplace practices in mind can enhance indoor air quality, natural lighting, and overall comfort, leading to happier, healthier employees.

     

  3. Economic Benefits

    Implementing office sustainability initiatives can lower operating costs by reducing energy bills and waste disposal expenses. Over time, these savings can add up significantly.

     

  4. Reputation and Brand Value

    Organizations prioritizing sustainability at office settings showcase their commitment to ethical practices, attracting eco-conscious clients and employees.

     

Key Elements of Sustainable Office Spaces

A truly sustainable office integrates eco-friendly principles into every aspect of its design and operations. Here’s a closer look at some essential elements:

1. Energy Efficiency

Adopting energy-saving measures is foundational to sustainability at work. Offices can invest in:

  • LED lighting, which uses significantly less power than traditional bulbs.
  • Energy-efficient HVAC systems to maintain comfortable temperatures with minimal energy use.
  • Solar panels to harness renewable energy, reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

2. Sustainable Building Materials

From desks to flooring, sustainable materials like bamboo, reclaimed wood, and recycled metal are becoming staples in modern offices. Using these reduces the carbon footprint associated with manufacturing and transportation.

3. Waste Management Systems

Effective waste management is a cornerstone of sustainable workplace practices. Offices can implement:

  • Comprehensive recycling programs for paper, plastics, and electronics.
  • Composting systems to handle organic waste.
  • Encouraging digital alternatives to minimize paper use.

4. Green Spaces

Incorporating plants into office design isn’t just aesthetic—it’s an integral part of sustainability in office environments. Plants improve air quality and bring a touch of nature indoors, enhancing employee morale.

5. Transportation Alternatives

Encouraging employees to bike to work, use public transportation, or participate in carpooling programs significantly reduces commuting-related emissions. Providing bike racks and incentives for green commuting are impactful office sustainability initiatives.

The Role of Technology in Promoting Sustainable Offices

Modern technology plays a pivotal role in advancing sustainability at office settings. Smart systems can optimize energy use by automatically adjusting lighting and temperature based on occupancy. Virtual collaboration tools reduce the need for business travel, cutting down on carbon emissions.

Moreover, cloud storage solutions help eliminate paper waste, ensuring that document management aligns with sustainable workplace practices. Technology, when used thoughtfully, can be a game-changer in achieving greener office operations.

Inspiring Examples of Office Sustainability Initiatives

Across the globe, companies are setting benchmarks for sustainability at work with innovative programs and designs.

1. Google’s Green Offices

Google has long been a leader in sustainable workplace practices, boasting office campuses that run on 100% renewable energy. Their initiatives include energy-efficient buildings, composting programs, and shuttle services powered by biofuels.

2. Unilever’s Eco-Friendly Headquarters

Unilever’s offices feature cutting-edge sustainability in office environment designs, such as rainwater harvesting systems, solar panels, and green roofing. These measures not only reduce environmental impact but also create a healthier workspace for employees.

3. Patagonia’s Sustainability Focus

Known for its eco-conscious brand ethos, Patagonia integrates sustainability at office settings through comprehensive recycling, energy conservation measures, and even on-site childcare to reduce employee commuting.

How Businesses Can Implement Sustainable Office Practices

Transitioning to a sustainable office may seem daunting, but even small steps can make a big difference. Here’s a practical guide for companies looking to embrace sustainability at work:

  1. Assess Current Practices

    Conduct an audit to identify areas of high resource consumption and waste generation.

     

  2. Set Clear Goals

    Define what sustainable workplace practices mean for your business, whether it’s achieving net-zero waste or reducing energy use by 50%.

     

  3. Engage Employees

    Foster a culture of sustainability in office environments by involving employees in eco-friendly initiatives. Provide training and incentives to encourage participation.

     

  4. Partner with Green Vendors

    Work with suppliers who prioritize sustainability, from office furniture makers to catering services.

     

  5. Measure and Report Progress

    Use tools to track the impact of your office sustainability initiatives, and share achievements with stakeholders to build trust and accountability.

     

The Future of Sustainable Offices

As the world continues to prioritise environmental responsibility, the concept of a sustainable office will only grow in importance. Future workplaces will likely incorporate cutting-edge green technologies, from carbon-capture systems to AI-driven energy management.

Moreover, the demand for sustainability in office environments is set to shape real estate trends, with businesses actively seeking eco-certified spaces. Landlords and developers will need to keep pace, integrating sustainability at office spaces into their designs to stay competitive.

Conclusion

The journey towards a sustainable future begins with conscious choices, and workplaces are at the forefront of this transformation. By adopting sustainable workplace practices and implementing impactful office sustainability initiatives, businesses can play a vital role in protecting the planet while fostering productive and inspiring environments for their teams.

Whether you’re an entrepreneur designing your first office or a seasoned executive looking to revamp your workspace, investing in a sustainable office isn’t just good for the environment—it’s good for business, too. Let’s embrace sustainability at work and build a greener, brighter future for all.

FAQs 

  1. What are sustainable office spaces, and why are they important?

    Sustainable office spaces are workplaces designed and operated to minimize environmental impact by reducing energy consumption, waste, and resource usage. They are important because they promote environmental responsibility, reduce operational costs, and enhance employee well-being.

  2. What features make an office space sustainable?

    Key features of sustainable office spaces include energy-efficient lighting and HVAC systems, use of eco-friendly materials, recycling and waste management programs, water-saving fixtures, and incorporation of green spaces or plants to improve air quality and morale.

  3. How can a company implement sustainable workplace practices?

    Companies can adopt sustainable workplace practices by conducting energy audits, switching to renewable energy sources, using sustainable materials, encouraging recycling, reducing paper use, and educating employees about eco-friendly practices.

  4. What are the benefits of sustainable office spaces for businesses?

    Sustainable office spaces help businesses reduce operating costs, improve employee health and productivity, enhance their brand reputation, and align with regulatory and societal expectations for sustainability.

  5. Are sustainable office spaces more expensive to set up or maintain?

    While initial setup costs for sustainable office spaces might be higher due to investments in energy-efficient systems or eco-friendly materials, the long-term savings from reduced energy bills, maintenance costs, and waste management often offset these expenses.

Exploring What Makes Flexible Workplaces Effective

Inspiring Stories

26 December 2024

Exploring What Makes Flexible Workplaces Effective

  • Posted by Awfis Editorial

In today’s dynamic workplace, adaptation and flexibility have emerged as critical components of company success. As businesses change to employee-centric approaches, flexible work spaces are emerging as a preferred solution for increasing productivity, satisfaction, and sustainability.

Let’s look at the concept of flexibility in the workplace, its benefits, and how you may use different workspace options to help your team reach its full potential.

What Does Flexibility in the Workplace Mean?

Flexibility in the workplace refers to the ability to change work arrangements to meet the demands of both the business and the employees. This could include providing a flexible office workspace, allowing remote work, or adopting hybrid models that blend in-office and remote work.

A flexible workspace is meant to adapt to changing needs, whether it offers hot-desking, shared areas, or individual cabins. These spaces enable businesses to thrive by increasing agility while providing employees with environments that enhance comfort and efficiency.

Benefits of Flexible Workplaces

1. Enhanced Work-Life Balance

Flexibility in the workplace allows employees to maintain a better work-life balance. Companies enable their employees to balance professional and personal responsibilities by providing solutions such as remote work or coworking facilities.

When employees can choose a flexible office closer to home or work from anywhere, they save time commuting and feel more in control of their schedules. This promotes better satisfaction and well-being.

2. Increased Productivity and Engagement

According to studies, adaptability and flexibility in the workplace improve employee morale and focus. A flexible workspace office promotes autonomy by allowing employees to work in environments where they perform best.

Employee engagement increases when their workplace adjusts to their requirements, whether it’s a quiet zone for intense concentration or a collaborative hub for brainstorming. Businesses may respond to varied working styles by providing configurable flexible work spaces, resulting in increased productivity.

3. Cost Savings for Businesses and Employees

Traditional offices have high operating costs, including rent, utilities, and upkeep. Companies that use flexible workspace can minimize overhead costs while maintaining infrastructure.

Employees also profit financially. A flexible office near their homes or remote work choices save commuting costs and stress, making it a win-win for everyone concerned.

4. Reduced Environmental Impact

There is a huge reduction in carbon footprint as more enterprises implement flexibility in  the workplace. Fewer commutes result in lower emissions, and shared areas in flexible work spaces encourage effective resource utilization.

Integrating flexible workspace office solutions helps environmentally aware businesses achieve their sustainability goals while also encouraging a greener future.

Types of Flexible Workspaces

To make the most of flexibility in the workplace, it’s essential to explore different workspace options. Here’s a look at some popular types:

1. Remote Work Options

Remote work represents adaptability in the modern workplace. It enables employees to work from any location, whether their homes, a café, or a peaceful holiday destination.

Companies that implement remote-friendly rules frequently report increased employee satisfaction and lower real estate expenditures, demonstrating the value of this flexible workspace office model.

2. Hybrid Work Models

The hybrid paradigm combines the best of both worlds: office collaboration and remote freedom. Employees can divide their time between the office and their preferred remote location, resulting in an ideal balance.

A hybrid system, enabled by flexible work spaces, keeps teams linked while providing the autonomy of remote work.

3. Hot Desking and Shared Spaces

Hot desking and shared workspaces are perfect for companies with dynamic teams. Employees can choose from available desks on a first-come, first-serve basis, thereby increasing resource efficiency.

Shared flexible office workspaces are also ideal for freelancers and startups wishing to network and cooperate in an affordable setting.

4. Coworking and Managed Workspaces

Coworking and managed workspaces offer the most flexibility in the workplace. These workspaces are designed to accommodate a variety of company demands, ranging from common spaces to individual offices.

Companies such as Awfis provide flexible workspace office solutions that combine functionality, comfort, and community, resulting in locations where businesses and individuals thrive.

FAQ

  1. What are the key features of flexible work spaces?

    Flexible workspaces are designed to adapt to changing needs, offering options like hot-desking, private cabins, and remote work setups. They provide IT support, collaborative zones, and tailored solutions for businesses.

  2. How do flexible office workspaces promote sustainability?

    By reducing commutes and optimizing resource use, flexible office workspaces contribute to lower carbon emissions and eco-friendly practices. Shared spaces also minimize energy and material wastage.

  3. Are flexible workspaces suitable for small businesses?

    Absolutely! Small businesses benefit from cost-effective flexible workspaces that offer scalability and modern amenities without the burden of long-term leases.

  4. How can flexible work spaces improve employee engagement?

    Flexibility in the workplace empowers employees to choose their ideal working environments, boosting morale and productivity. Customizable layouts and collaborative spaces further enhance engagement.

Your Path to Flexibility with Awfis

Awfis, the pioneer of flexible work spaces, is your go-to option for adopting adaptability and flexibility in the workplace. Awfis guarantees that your workspace is aligned with your business goals by offering customizable solutions such as managed offices, coworking spaces, and hot desking.

Awfis also promotes sustainability and community building, providing conditions that encourage growth, collaboration, and creativity. Awfis’ flexible workspace office solutions are suitable for freelancers, startups, and corporations of all sizes.