There are so many aspects to working in an office. An office isn’t just a room people come to collectively work. There are so many things employers can implement to make an office a powerhouse of efficiency, ingenuity, and achievement, without sacrificing employee satisfaction.
Organisation
Organisation doesn’t just mean physical organisation, such as using a filing system, although this is always a good idea. It can also mean a productive team of workers who know what their task is and how to complete it and management who can effectively delegate and lead.
An office should not be a place of chaos and confusion. Staff should be informed of changes ahead of time and know what is expected of them, and their workload should be managed so that it is reasonable and they can go about it without disruption. They should also have the physical resources needed to complete their work.
The office space should be physically well-organised too, making it easy for employees to move around the office and get their work done and reducing the risk of workplace accidents. A streamlined and curated workplace encourages productivity and creativity.
Technology
Even the best worker finds it hard to be productive on a 2005 desktop and a slow wireless internet connection. Modern technology is part of a modern workplace and can greatly enhance a number of aspects of your workplace, including efficiency, communication, and organisation. The technology used in your office space should be up-to-date, in good condition, and free from viruses or anything that compromises security.
Modern technology can make your workplace more efficient, whether by making it possible for employees to work from home or by improving communication between staff. Employers may even consider fibre internet plans, making it possible for employees to work faster and more efficiently. Unlike Wi-Fi or NBN, fibre internet doesn’t fluctuate in speed or become slower when the user is further from the source. Its design provides extreme bandwidth and better data transmission.
Don’t worry, your “old” technology is not obsolete. A printer, photocopier, shredder and fax machine can still be essential parts of a modern workplace.
Amenities
An office isn’t just desks and cubicles. Having a kitchen and bathroom available for your employees is essential, as is somewhere for them to relax- a comfy break room, and even an outdoor space, can improve morale.
Your employees should not have to fear for their physical safety while at work. All concerns should be taken seriously, and things such as security, air quality, and the physical condition of the building should all be taken into account. If your workplace is a hazard to peoples health and safety, you will be responsible for finding alternative arrangements.
Everyone works better when their needs are met. Following the standards of workplace ergonomics will improve the day-to-day lives of your staff. Your employees need a comfortable chair that won’t hurt their backs, access to water at all times, a screen they can see without straining their necks, and, if their job involves physical labour, measures need to be taken that they are not overdoing it.
Communication
One massive aspect of working in an office is communication, whether that be team collaboration or how interpersonal conflicts are resolved. Communication should be clear, respectful, and professional, especially between employers and employees. Staff can have fun with each other as long as no boundaries are crossed and the professional nature of the workplace is maintained.
One way to ensure that communication goes smoothly is to have clear rules of etiquette. These can include everyone arriving on time, doing their own work and not disrupting others, acting appropriately, cleaning up after oneself, and having a no-tolerance policy for discrimination or bullying.
Employees do not want to feel degraded or disrespected, and employers should keep this in mind when offering constructive criticism or when a customer or client has treated a staff member poorly. Mental health should always be a priority, and staff should provide opportunities for mental health breaks, counselling, and support when dealing with mental illness or a bad situation. Employees coming back after a long time away, for physical or mental illness or paternity or maternity leave, should feel embraced by their workplace as they ease back into work. The workplace should encourage a good balance between work and personal life.
Leave a Reply