Happiness and productivity are closely linked, with happy employees being more productive than their counterparts. Boosting employee happiness and productivity is a complex process, but one of the easiest ways to do so is to make changes to your office and working environment.
With some careful consideration and easy changes, you can help your staff to be happier and more productive in the workplace.
Offices – open plan vs cubicles
It can be difficult to get office space ‘right’. From noise and lighting to temperature and size, it’s almost impossible to please everyone! The two main options you have for office layout are open plan or cellular, each of which comes with their own pros and cons.
Open plan offices
Open plan offices are great if your teams need to be collaborative, allowing for easy conversation and exchange of ideas. However, for individuals who like to get their head down and power through their work, an open plan office can seem like a nightmare!
It’s important to consider your team and the work they’re going to be carrying out on a daily basis. Also consider the preferences of your key employees, and perhaps offer a quiet alternative space or noise-cancelling headphones for when they need a break.
Cellular offices
Cellular offices or cubicles can be great for productivity, but they don’t do much to help strengthen office culture. Although some people will prefer to have their own space, cubicles can isolate individuals and make face-to-face communication between colleagues difficult. Cubicles may be beneficial for those whose roles require high levels of focus and accuracy.
Co-working
Choosing to base your business in a co-working space offers a range of benefits that you may not have considered, along with often being cheaper than dedicated office space!
Co-working spaces are large spaces shared by multiple companies. Despite this, there are a range of spaces within to choose from, such as individual desks, banks of desks or private offices.
Co-working spaces offer a great sense of community, with opportunities to socialise with companies from a range of industries at events in the space. Some co-working spaces, such as Accelerate Places, offer business support and advice which may help to boost your business. Co-working may also solve the age old problem of how to please everyone, as most spaces have quiet areas, break areas and meeting rooms for use by employees.
Flexi-working
Flexi-working options are on the rise, with more companies than ever offering the opportunity to work from home. Remote work tends to be done from home, although others may choose to take up residence in a local coffee shop or co-working space. Allowing staff to work from home is a cost free option that may help employees to feel happier (and therefore be more productive!). It also allows employees to work around childcare or other personal commitments.
When choosing your next workspace, it’s important to consider the needs of your team and how they work together. Office space is a costly investment for any company, and can have a real impact on staff happiness and productivity. Make sure to consider all the options available to you before making your decision!
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