How to capitalize on the future of work with Ryan Simonetti - Product Hunt Radio Recap

Podcast: Product Hunt Radio

Published: 2020-03-11

Duration: 40 min

Summary

In this episode, Ryan Simonetti discusses how Convene is transforming workspaces by infusing them with hospitality-focused experiences to enhance employee productivity and satisfaction. He shares insights on the evolving nature of work and the importance of adapting office environments to meet modern demands.

What Happened

Abidesi, the host of Product Hunt Radio, welcomes Ryan Simonetti, CEO and co-founder of Convene, to the show. Ryan shares the story of how his upbringing in a family of small business owners inspired him toward entrepreneurship. He reflects on his early career in real estate, where he noticed a stark difference in how hospitality and office spaces were designed and experienced. This observation led him to question why office buildings couldn't be managed with the same customer-centric approach as hotels, ultimately giving birth to Convene.

As Ryan elaborates on Convene's mission, he highlights the company's commitment to enhancing the working experience through a hospitality lens. He mentions that the company has grown significantly over its ten-year journey, now employing nearly a thousand people across 32 locations, including a recent expansion into London. Ryan explains that their approach focuses on delivering exceptional customer service and creating spaces that are enjoyable and conducive to productivity, which sets them apart from traditional office environments.

Key Insights

Key Questions Answered

How is Convene redefining office spaces?

Ryan Simonetti explains that Convene aims to treat office buildings like hotels, focusing on customer experience and hospitality. He emphasizes that the way experiences are delivered in buildings needs to change, as people spend significant time working and deserve an enjoyable environment. This approach involves not just beautiful design and seamless technology, but also a genuine commitment to service from the staff.

What insights does Ryan have on the future of work?

Ryan highlights that the nature of work has fundamentally changed, with a greater emphasis on collaboration and flexibility. He notes that as individuals' needs evolve, companies must reconsider how they utilize real estate. The traditional model of companies managing their own spaces is shifting towards seeking external partners like Convene that can provide a more holistic approach to workspace management.

What challenges are big enterprises facing in workspace management?

Ryan points out that large enterprises, which once operated their own spaces, are now facing challenges in attracting and retaining talent. With the demands of today's workforce shifting, companies are rethinking their real estate strategies and looking for innovative solutions that can meet these new needs. This shift has opened opportunities for companies like Convene to partner with enterprises to provide flexible and appealing work environments.

What role does hospitality play in the success of Convene?

Hospitality is at the core of Convene's business model, as Ryan emphasizes the importance of the human touch in delivering exceptional service. He believes that creating valuable experiences for users starts with understanding their needs and providing a level of care that is often missing in traditional office settings. This focus on hospitality differentiates Convene from other workspace providers and contributes to its success.

How has Convene's growth trajectory been over the years?

Ryan shares that Convene has experienced significant growth since its inception, now operating in six cities with plans for global expansion. The company has nearly a thousand employees and continues to innovate in the flexible office space market. This growth reflects the increasing demand for services that prioritize user experience and hospitality, positioning Convene as a leader in the future of work.