Eight ways to create a better workplace environment
People spend about a third of their lives working so that it's important that they feel comfortable and at ease at work. We take a look at some of the ways you can create a better workplace environment.
It's impossible to enjoy your job all the time, but the kind of environment you work in – and the workplace culture that surrounds it – has a massive impact on how you feel about your job and coworkers.
Over the past few years, many people have been working remotely due to the pandemic. Now, many organisations are encouraging a return to on-site working.
While 7 in 10 companies globally have returned to the office, others may be struggling to do so. One way that managers and leaders can motivate employees to return is by improving the workplace environment and creating better places to work.
Here are seven ways to create a better working environment: that boosts business communication, employee engagement and productivity.
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1. Think hybrid
Hybrid working is the most popular option for employees, with 47% of UK workers saying that it's the model they prefer. So employers need to take this into account when thinking of ways to improve the workplace environment. People are likely to come into the office to collaborate and socialise with their coworkers, so think comfortable break-out spaces and meeting rooms where people can reconnect and share ideas.
2. Get suggestions for improvement in the workplace
Send out a survey and ask employees what they think would improve the workplace environment. That way, you can make sure that you invest in improvements that people really want. And make sure that you follow up and show which suggestions you've put into practice.
3. Keep the communication flowing
There's nothing worse than a workplace where the only sounds are the relentless tapping of keyboards and an occasional sigh. The so-called "pin drop syndrome", when it's so quiet that people feel afraid to speak, is exhausting to many employees. Take steps to encourage your employees to talk to one another.
You could dedicate a specific area in the workspace for people to relax and have a friendly chat. It could be a place where they can catch up over lunch or exchange ideas about an upcoming project. And of course, corporate communication doesn't always have to be face to face.
Technology can help keep the conversation going wherever people do their work. Encourage your hybrid teams to use video calls or a live broadcast to keep the conversation going and take advantage of everything that video engagement has to offer.
But it's not just about employees communicating together. More conversations between employees and managers could help employees feel comfortable in the workplace, so keep your door open, virtually and physically, for regular check-ins.
4. Encourage exercise
Exercise can improve health, mood and productivity, so try to get people moving. If the roles in your organisation are mainly sedentary, encourage people to take breaks and walk around.
And if you're feeling inventive, why not make your workplace pet-friendly? Taking a dog around the block is a great way to take a break and relax and it's popular – 94% of people like the idea of having pets in the office.
Plus, pets in the workplace have been shown to lower stress levels and create a comfortable environment.
5. Show your appreciation
Naturally, everyone likes to earn praise, and letting people know when they're doing a good job is a great way to motivate employees. It can also be a critical part of the way you build strong workplace culture and community at work.
Technology can help here. Try integrating your communication platform with specialist recognition and reward tools. An app like Recognise can help you easily show your appreciation without having to swap screens or systems. And it can also help you keep hold of your top talent and communicate your organisational values.
A summer party or Christmas do could be the perfect time to hold a fun rewards ceremony, where employees are recognised for their work. A culture of recognition and appreciation will show employees that you value them and could encourage them to stay with the organisation for longer.
6. Create a workplace like home
Modern approaches to workspace design are an important part of employee satisfaction. A physically comfortable space where people can feel at ease will help to improve mood and provide a better day-to-day working experience.
In the office, make sure that furniture is comfortable and ergonomic and add some plants – they're a great mood and productivity booster.
In non-office environments, make sure that you provide lots of break areas where staff can take five, grab a drink and catch up with their coworkers.
7. Make the most of the light
Exposure to natural daylight in the workplace is linked to better efficiency and better sleep. A lack of it is associated with feelings of tension and isolation.
Design workstations so that employees can enjoy natural light. In workspaces where you can't access natural light, try daylight bulbs to brighten things up and lighten the mood.
During wintertime,you might try investing in SAD lamps, which use light therapy to replicate sunshine. These are particularly helpful for those who experience seasonal depression.
8. Have fun together
Overworked people tend to be unproductive, so make sure you allow time to have fun. Organise activities for your team when they're off duty to give them a chance to let off steam and bond.
Arranging work meals out or virtual tea breaks is an easy way to do this. Enabling people to relax and socialise together, whether in the office or online, is an easy and time-honoured way to build better workplace interactions and develop a better workplace environment.
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