All businesses want to make the work environment as happy, healthy, and as conducive to productivity as possible. And it’s important to recognise that business owners and managers are responsible for the happiness and productivity of their teams. If you're considering ways to improve engagement, motivation and productivity at work, it can be as simple as making a few adjustments to the workplace strategy, layout and decor of the workspace.
Study after study has shown that employees who work in an inviting and engaging environment are more productive, efficient and happy while at work. The average person spends around 90,000 hours at work during their lifetime, so being in an environment that is inviting is paramount. In fact, research has found that when people are happy at work, they are likely to be on average 12% more productive.
The layout of the office has a significant impact on employees, affecting anything from creativity to general motivation and mood. Not only is it important to invest in the welfare of employees, but doing so also benefits both workers and employers. In this article we’ll look at some simple yet effective ways to make the workplace more inviting for employees.
Interior Design
The design of the workspace is a vital element when it comes to creating a positive work environment. When it comes to building an atmosphere where employees can thrive, every aspect counts, from the colours of the walls to the choice of furniture, to the arrangement of the furnishings. By drawing inspiration from the hospitality sector and introducing strategic lighting, furniture arrangements, accents such as artwork or paintings, plants and acoustic pieces into these spaces, you can take the design of the office to a whole new level.
The best workplaces are well-balanced and adaptable to a wide range of duties and personality types. And with the way we work constantly changing and evolving, this is vital in modern office spaces. With more and more people hot desking and looking for collaborative spaces, businesses may need to use different equipment and space from one project to the next, meaning workplaces need to be flexible, intuitive and uncomplicated. Employees feel cherished in an office setting that is both practical and attractive.
The Modern Office
Today’s smart office spaces must be designed to deal with times when the office is full, and also when there is a fallow period. The fixed office is no longer always viable. Instead flexible spaces that can be used for multiple purposes, and are designed to ensure different company departments are not kept apart, are becoming more prominent. Some workers will always perform better in the conventional setting where they are always given a workstation. But some people will perform better in an activity-based work environment where they can select where they work and that best suits the tasks they need to complete.
It's all about giving employees the choice, providing them with furniture solutions that will allow them to move around the office and be comfortable throughout their work day. Remember though that whatever the office arrangement and working practices, every workplace needs ample storage space for all the paperwork, supplies and employee’s personal belongings.
As the modern workplace changes, the Flux modular locker system from Dams offers adaptable architecture that supports users throughout their day. Lockers are an essential component of the new office landscape, and the Flux locker tower system offers a flexible and secure personal storage solution that can be customised and used in any number of configurations to maximise storage and securely protect personal items.
Comfortable Office Furniture
One way to make work more inviting for employees is to invest in comfortable and ergonomic office furniture. Uncomfortable chairs, desks and even soft seating can cause aches and pains, which can in turn affect productivity and motivation. The application of ergonomics in your workplace will make the environment more comfortable for all employees, boosting productivity and reducing stress – something that serves both the employer and employees alike.
Look for comfortable chairs with adjustable seat and back positions or lumbar support that will help reduce back and neck strain. Technologies like sit-stand desks can also help employees change positions throughout the day, which can help reduce fatigue. Invest in quality furniture that will last and businesses will have a more inviting workspace for your employees.
A collaborative environment is also essential for the team to work together, especially with the increase in hybrid working. When employees are in the office, ensure they have a welcoming, comfortable space to gather and interact with colleagues, either on the spur of the moment or for a meeting planned in advance. Sofas, lounge chairs and meeting booths from Dams’ Social Spaces portfolio can be used to enhance the workplace culture and increase employee engagement by making everyone feel valued, supported and included.
Embrace Technology
It should come as no surprise that as we embrace more and more advanced technology, our office spaces also have to adapt. Businesses and people can interact and communicate more quickly and easily now because of technology, but it must be used by businesses in a way that makes it a tool rather than a diversion. The use of technology in the workplace should never be random and should always serve a purpose of making people’s work easier for them.
Furniture choices can provide wireless charging or easily accessible power modules integrated at desks, in tables and soft seating. In the office, employees users should be able to sit down, plug in, and work from wherever they want. In meeting spaces, seamless audio-visual technology is a must in today’s hybrid environments to ensure meeting equity, regardless of whether they are in the office or not. If offices aren’t designed to accommodate this technology and become embedded in the Internet of Things, this will ultimately hamper productivity.
A Positive Work Culture
Work environments can be stressful – that’s something that will never change. However, the way that office spaces are designed can help to alleviate pressure in the tensest of situations. Understanding that each person is unique and that there is no one-size-fits-all strategy for inclusion is a good first step. It’s about building a culture where everyone feels welcome and appreciated. One of the most crucial things businesses can do to ensure a productive and positive work environment is to make the office space inviting and welcoming.
Additionally, when employees feel that employers are investing in growing their skills, they’ll put more effort into their work and demonstrate loyalty to the business. Foster an environment of respect and collaboration, recognising employee’s contributions, and providing opportunities for learning and growth. A happy, supportive and inviting work environment can go a long way in keeping employees engaged and motivated.
