A textbook definition of a workspace is considered a dull, cubicle area where work is done. However, company culture studies and workplace development gurus have proven, time and again, this approach isn’t the best if you want to engage employees and produce peak productivity.
An Oxford Economics study concluded that employee satisfaction and productivity are negatively affected by distractions caused by a workplace set-up with an endless sea of cubicles.
As an employer, if you aim to bring out the best in your employees, changing a few things in their work areas can create a happier and more enthusiastic team. Here’s a look at a few simple things you can do around the office to increase productivity.
Equip your team with the proper tools
You’d never expect an athlete training for a marathon to complete it in record time while wearing flip flops. Why? Because the right shoes (i.e., tools) are everything.
Runners know the right running shoes provide the proper foundation for your entire body, help prevent injuries, and make logging those miles far more enjoyable. The same can be said of your team and the tools they need to successfully carry out their job roles.
To this end, make sure your employees have access to the right technology for their work. This includes high-speed Wi-Fi, fast and secure computers, up-to-date software, etc. If they need new safety equipment and tools to meet regulations, ensure they have access to it. No matter your industry, you’ll observe increased productivity when your team has everything they need to perform their jobs well.
Embrace natural lighting in your office space
When we’re in the office on those summer days, when we’d rather enjoy the sun at the beach, it can be hard to stay focused with minimum light and dark office spaces. Artificial lighting doesn’t compare to natural light and its benefits.
A Cornell study found that workers exposed to natural sunlight during the day had an 84% drop in eye strain, blurred vision, and headaches. When employees feel better, they’re likely to perform better.
Encourage your employees to be more organized
Being organized can save a lot of time and hassle instead of employees searching for information and tools they need each day. According to Newsweek, the average American wastes 55 minutes a day (roughly 12 days a year) looking for things they own but can’t find. This undoubtedly plays out on a larger scale in the workplace.
Consider your team’s access to frequently asked questions. Collaborate to create an online knowledgebase within a company intranet to keep everyone in the loop and on the same page. On-site, make sure your office space has plenty of filing cabinets and a simple system to keep people organized. Also, access to office supplies (e.g., highlighters, pen holders, folders, labelers, calendars, clock, and drawer organizers) is helpful.
Being organized starts from the top and trickles down. If you are disorganized, your team will follow your lead. Keep your office space clean, and offer incentives for those who keep their areas organized. It will make the workflow easier, which will increase the enthusiasm of your employees.
Transform your office space
There are many ways you can enhance your workplace to boost company culture and overall employee satisfaction. You’ll want your team to thrive in the best workplace experience possible, so they can, in turn, help your business flourish. Start with these quick tips, consider renovating or book a workspace makeover today!
Craig Lebrau is the CMO of Media Insider, a Wyoming-based PR company that aims to disrupt the way companies communicate their brand in the digital era.
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