In the last two decades there have been numerous changes to the modern office. In the early 2000s, cubicles were completely removed in favour of open floor plans. In 2015, many offices adopted foosball and ping pong tables where employees can relax after a long day. Office trends are always changing but the most important thing is the impact to an employee’s health and overall well-being.
A quality workspace design allows employees to be productive and less stressed, so employers need to take into consideration the impact of the workspace on their staff. From a recent report, some of the findings indicated the following:
• At least 87% of employees would like their employer to offer healthy workspace benefits. These include company fitness benefits, wellness rooms, sit-stands, ergonomic seating and healthy lunch options.
• 93% of employees working in the tech industry mentioned they would stay longer in a company with healthier workspace benefits such as those mentioned above.
• 34% of employees in younger companies are likely to be turned down when asking for benefits in their workplace, compared to those in an already established company.
Keep in mind that we spend at least 1/3 of our lives in the office. If you want to find the top talent and retain it, companies need to foster an environment that empowers people and gives them enough space to be productive. At least 70% of modern offices have an open floor plan and it’s popular.
However, for the best results, it needs to be implemented correctly. Basically, an open floor plan needs to improve employee productivity and foster happiness in everyone working there. Whether it’s offering private rooms to receive and make calls or quiet spaces where people can meditate and have fun, every office needs to maximise employee well-being.
An office should be a place that fosters collaboration between employees so the employer needs to have this in mind when creating any legitimate office space. Here are some useful tips to help maximise the benefits mentioned above.
1. Air
Did you know that the quality of air in an office can have a huge impact on the productivity and overall well-being of your employees? A recent research identified that increased fresh air in the workspace and reducing pollutants can increase productivity by at least 11%.
2. Water
Our bodies are made up of at least 73% water. Consuming water improves sleep quality and boosts energy levels. That way, you can focus and get a clear mind. Also, it improves alertness and awareness so staff will be more productive at work. You need to push your employees to take more water by providing fresh water in the office.
3. Nourishment
Whatever your employees eat will fuel their days when working. If you want them to feel focused, energised and productive, you should provide a nutritious and balanced catering option. That way, they can get the nourishment they need to stay alert and productive. You should encourage better eating habits and a healthy food culture in the office for the best results.
4. Cleanliness
No employee is going to feel focused, productive and happy if distracted by messy, dirty office space. With so many people, paper and furnishings dust can build up quickly. As an employer who is responsible for the office space, it’s your job to make sure a cleaning agency is appointed who can make sure your offices are comfortable and hygienic. Serviced office space Woking is the way to go to ensure all your office management needs are met.
5. Natural Light
Employees sitting in a well-lit place with natural light reported at least 84% less eye strain, blurred vision or headaches, among other symptoms. You should redesign the office to allow more natural light for the best results.
6. Increased Comfort
Any ideal office should be comfortable. Using ergonomics should decrease muscle fatigue and increase productivity. Even better, it will reduce the risk of musculoskeletal disorders and other conditions. An ideal office should be comfortable without any distractions.
7. Mind
People working in offices with a natural feature have an increased level of overall well-being. Even better, they are more productive and creative at work. When renovating or build your new office space, you need to have your employees’ needs in mind. Remember, you can’t push employees to do their best if the environment doesn’t allow it.
In conclusion, the employer is partly responsible for employee productivity and creativity. Therefore, take that into consideration the next time you are redesigning your office spaces to make sure your employees are comfortable enough to improve their productivity.