Boosting productivity and efficiency is of tremendous importance in the business context. Much of the inspiration comes from the environment, meaning that changing the layout of a workspace can help employees perform better. Intuitive workplace design is the first step towards that goal, but there are many more tips — the most important of which we will consider below.
Read on!
Intuitive Workspace Design
First of all, it’s crucial to remove the major determent, which is to say — interruptions. Employees are interrupted every 11 minutes and manage to resume their work after 25 minutes, on average, according to a recent study by the University of California. Some simple calculations will leave us with ca. 2 and a half hours lost to interruption every day.
If we keep in mind that many interruptions can be solved simply by designing an intuitive workspace, this loss is simply unacceptable. For example, an office that features a sufficient number of telephones and printers will eliminate the need to go elsewhere to perform these tasks, decreasing interruptions dramatically.
Create a Connected Work Environment
A connected workspace can improve productivity drastically. It’s no secret that a stunning number of people are complaining of feeling lonely, which can be alleviated by upholding employee socialization.
Further out, the practice offers additional benefits, notably helping employees feel they’re working on a larger goal than their daily tasks. The startup mindset works in this way. Every participant contributes ideas and shares the business’ successes and failures. Instead of finger-pointing, employees support one another in reaching their goals.
When a task is successful, on the other hand, everyone shares in the business’ success.
Simply put, make everyone feel pleasant in their office and enjoy their work. A connected workspace is just the boost the employees need.
Personalize Your Office Space
There’s more to personalization than meets the eye. At first glance, a picture on your desk may appear silly, but the truth is that if it holds any emotional value to you, it should be there.
The same goes for just any kind of objects that help you feel more relaxed. Some people keep a picture of their family in their office while others thrive when surrounded by works of art. Whatever makes you happy should be present in your office. It’s as simple as that.
Brainstorm Job Management
Job management can be approached from different angles. There are, after all, different types of powerful management to consider.
Different leadership styles suit different people, so experiment a bit. Sometimes, managers who also coach their team are a welcome addition. On other occasions, a more relaxed approach is welcome. Observe how employees react to different approaches and deploy feedback to get ideas for targeted management development training.
Also, use software for efficient job management to streamline repetitive tasks. This alone will lift up the atmosphere and help employees focus on meaningful tasks.
Ensure Knowledge Sharing
No matter how good you are at your work, sometimes a different approach will inspire you to perform better and get more creative. In short, knowledge sharing is crucial for long-term success and employee satisfaction.
This can be performed in various ways. Many companies schedule team-building activities at suitable company retreat venues, while others host online meetings and build employee communities. To discover what will work best for your company, ask employees for feedback. Good ideas can be shared on a carting outing no less efficiently than during a virtual pajama party.
Try out different setups. Get creative!
Keep Your Workspace Clean and Add Some Plants
Cleanliness in the office is no less important than cleanliness at home.
Imagine this situation: your desk is overcrowded with empty glasses and you have difficulties finding the office accessories you need. That’s an interruption and no mistake. Now imagine the opposite: your desk is clean and a picture of your pet greets you back to work. Wouldn’t you automatically feel better without even lifting a finger?
As far as plants are concerned, they serve multiple purposes. In addition to enriching the space, they also clean the air, so bring in some office plants. You should make certain to pick the plants that can blossom in the office. Succulents are one of the usual choices, but if you’re interested in different plants, ask a professional for help.
Encourage Regular Breaks
Regular breaks are paramount. Namely, many employees complain of burnout and a stressful environment without even realizing much of it can be prevented simply by taking a break when one is due. Scheduling regular breaks is no less important than prioritizing tasks, so don’t skip a break only because your schedule is hectic.
The practice can be advanced one step further. For example, people with vocations that don’t require physical presence in the office should be given the freedom to work remotely. The trend is gaining momentum, too, so consider a hybrid work model at the very least.
Observe Productivity From Different Angles
Productivity is an evolving process that can be grown, groomed, and inspired. Every business employs different personalities, to begin with. There will always be introverts and extroverts and not everyone is fond of social gatherings per se. That, however, doesn’t mean that there are no options.
Employee feedback will give you plenty of ideas but don’t rely solely on that. Be proactive; observe the mood and surprise your employees with creative ideas.
Start with workspace design and encourage employees to personalize their space. Ask them what they would add and what they’d remove. Is something missing? Are there enough telephones? Is the environment quiet enough? Is it inspiring enough?
Finally, brainstorm team-building activities. Get people together to share their ideas. Listen to their feedback and implement their suggestions.
