Productivity is a crucial part of a successful business. The more productive workers are, the more the bottom line benefits. However, since many employees are crammed into small offices with poor lighting, cheap furniture, and inconsiderate coworkers, productivity suffers in many cases. Below are several tips, both psychological and physical, to help small business owners increase productivity.
Regulate Indoor Temps
Workers have a variety of environmental complaints, but indoor temperatures are one of the most common. Everyone has unique biology, and there will always be a few workers who are uncomfortable no matter the setting on the thermostat. When evaluating an office space, ask the current owner or landlord about the building’s HVAC system. Things that include vent placement, thermostat location, and temperature control capabilities. If the office is already established and employees are complaining about the temperature, supervisors should consider installing heat-blocking curtains or shades to mitigate rising temps. Alternatively, bosses can rearrange employees’ workspaces so they’re not in too-hot or too-cold spots.
Increase Natural and Indirect Lighting
If possible, offices should have natural lighting. Fluorescent lighting isn’t healthy, especially when sitting under it for eight hours per day. New types of lighting options mimic natural lighting. Employees should, where practical, have the option to light their cubicles, offices, or workspaces with soothing indirect lighting.
Think About Physical Comfort
In most places, employees spend a great deal of time sitting at desks and staring at computer screens. Ensuring that chairs, desks, and computer workstations are designed with comfort in mind can help keep workers healthy, happy, and productive. Poorly designed furniture can lead to more worker’s compensation claims, and other health issues can also affect productivity.
Restore Employees’ Privacy
While the mid-90s saw a significant increase in the prevalence of open-plan offices, in efforts to increase collaboration and cooperation, recent research has proven that open offices are counterproductive in many cases. Based on the nature of the office space, it may not be practical to provide every employee with a separate room. However, what’s important is to have areas and workspaces that allow employees enough privacy to focus. Dedicated work areas cut down on distractions, no matter what they may be.
Get Rid of the Clutter
As a small- to medium-sized business owner, it’s possible for one to find themselves outgrowing their office spaces rather quickly. Cramped quarters can lead to messes around the office, with extra supplies and equipment cluttering up common areas. In some instances, employees may even have to share their workspaces with all this extra stuff! Increase employee comfort and productivity by minimizing clutter where possible. If it’s necessary, consider renting a storage unit until the move is complete or the owner can afford a larger office. When a business only has a few employees, ensuring that everyone is performing to their full potential will allow the business owner to maximize the investment in those workers’ time, skills, and talents.
There are many steps office managers and business owners can take to make employees happier, healthier and more productive. By following these tips, everyone can enjoy a better and more efficient workday.
Slaby & Associates is built on over 20 years of commercial construction experience. Seeing problems with other firms, Dean Slaby took his construction knowledge and built a brokerage firm to facilitate clients from beginning to end. From finding the perfect property to lease or construct on, Slaby & Associates is able to help. Contact them today.
