02 Attract and retain talents
Leverage talents with your workspace The traditional consulting firm model has lost some of its appeal, particularly due to the increasing challenges of attracting talent. In this context, the workspace has become a strategic asset in drawing in qualified candidates. While most interviews still take place via videoconference, the critical final step often happens in person at the company’s offices. This moment plays a key role in the candidate’s decision-making process, as it’s when they truly experience the work environment. Therefore, making a strong first impression is crucial. Space planning is essential in this process because it ensures a smooth and welcoming experience throughout the candidate’s journey. To achieve this, you need to ask the right questions: • Where will the candidate wait before their interview? • How will they navigate the company’s premises? • What type of interview room is best suited to the candidate’s profile and the position? These elements should not only attract the candidate but also give them a clear understanding of the company’s culture and values. Will they have the opportunity to meet other employees? What kind of experience do you want them to take away?
Recent examples illustrate the importance of space in this dynamic. A prestigious international strategy consulting firm in Paris, moved into offices twice the size of its competitors in 2024 and has focused heavily on maintaining proximity and a sense of community within its teams, despite the large office space. This decision reflects the company’s commitment to creating a work environment that fosters collaboration and mentorship while ensuring all employees are on-site. As the CEO put it, «You learn your job through contact with others,» emphasizing the office’s role in talent development, despite the ongoing trend of remote work. Large consulting firms are also investing in spaces that rival their technology partners in terms of hospitality. By embracing hospitality design principles, consulting firms are creating environments where conviviality and efficiency coexist—such as reception halls and cafeterias—allowing candidates to experience the company culture even before they’re hired. According to a study by Smart Recruiters, 44% of companies only provide this immersion after official hiring. By integrating this experience earlier in the recruitment process, consulting firms improve the candidate experience and ensure a better alignment of values between future employees and the organization.
A renowned Big 4 audit and consulting firm, located in La Défense, Paris, has recently decided to hold all interviews in person at its headquarters. They decided to redesign the spaces dedicated to recruitment, as well as the reception services to accommodate the growing number of candidates better.
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