When you own a business, you tend to focus on output and profits. Of course, there's nothing wrong with that, as the business needs to be profitable to stay afloat, but when you get too caught up in those metrics you start to miss other things that are also in your control. Did you know that creating a workspace where employees feel happy, comfortable and safe will help to increase productivity? That's right, a happy employee equates to a hard-working employee.
To help you tap into this benefit, here's a look at some of the ways you can make your office a more inviting place for employees to work in.
Provide Employees with Ample Work and Storage Space
No one likes a cluttered workspace, as it can lead to mistakes, lost data, missed deadlines and general disarray. Your first inclination may be to get frustrated with employees and ask them to keep a cleaner space, but it's wise to stop and first ask yourself if you're giving them ample work and storage space.
Without enough room for them to spread out their work, you are setting them up for failure. Not only that, but they need dedicated storage space that allows them to remove the clutter from their desk. It may be time to reconfigure how your office is laid out, invest in new office furniture and upgrade the storage.
Allow as Much Natural Light in as Possible
Here's a tip that will have profound effects on mood and productivity levels. Allowing natural light into the office is a huge pick-me-up. It's time to take down the heavy window coverings, move furniture so it's not blocking the windows, and capitalize on the natural light.
If the office lacks windows and therefore natural light isn't much of an option, make sure you have adequate lighting throughout the space. You can also be cutting-edge and provide employees with artificial light units, also called light therapy lamps, at their workstations. These lights are especially useful during the cold, dark winter months and may even help lessen the symptoms of SAD (seasonal affective disorder).
Make Sure the Air is Fresh and Free of Lingering Odors
Lingering odors in the air may not seem like a big deal in the workplace, but for many employees, it can be unpleasant and leave them feeling unwell. Some odors can cause headaches, nausea and even dizziness, all of which will affect their focus and productivity levels. A simple thing you can do is make sure the air is fresh smelling. An ozone generator is one way you can do this, which can attack the substances in the air that are causing the odor, and permanently remove the smell.
Give Employees the Ultimate Breakroom
Finally, this is the perfect opportunity to spruce up the employee breakroom. You can include comfortable seating, a dining table and chairs, a microwave, coffee maker, refrigerator, dishwasher, toaster oven, large sink and even entertainment like a television, video game console and music.
Once you make these changes, it won't be long until you see a turnaround in the attitude and productivity levels of your employees.
Interesting Related Article: "How to Relocate Your Office Without Losing Productivity: 5 Important Tips"
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