Productivity is at the core of every successful business. Yet, mastering the art of productivity can be challenging. Many organizations tend to perceive productivity in terms of team members, identifying the most productive and least productive employees. In reality, the metrics used to measure productivity fail to reflect the reality of office work.
Some tasks are less productive but necessary, such as administration or research.
Additionally, employees are frequently surrounded by distractions in the workplace by no fault of their own. Loud conversations, a hectic atmosphere, and frequent interruptions, all these can affect an individual’s productivity. So, if you want to bring your business to the next level, it’s time to take responsibility and build a productivity-friendly office.
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Normalize breaks
Let’s be realistic. Nobody can work 8 or 10 hours a day at a desk and maintain a high focus and quality output. Taking regular breaks not only encourages productivity, but it is also crucial to maintain it. However, many workplaces have created an environment where taking breaks can be frowned upon. Gossips are quick to spread, and if someone is seen not working at their desk, then they are likely to be judged for it.
So, rather than expecting your team to take breaks, make it your priority to build a workplace culture where breaks are encouraged and normalized. This can be by showing managers on break or even by introducing break rooms with entertainment features, for instance.
Create different layouts
One thing about your employees is that they are all different. As such, they will have different work preferences. Some people shine in a group setting and prefer to approach projects in a collaborative way. Others need a quiet and isolated spot where they can focus without being disturbed.
As such, building a productive office starts by creating a diverse layout for those who need to work in groups and those who prefer a soundproof booth with a single desk.
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Build an engaging decor
Have you ever considered the role of your office decor? Color psychology can play a vital role in improving productivity and creating a comfortable work environment. The days when offices only needed to be painted white are long gone. Nowadays, you can select a vibrant palette that promotes focus and boosts serotonin levels. For a clean finish, we recommend reaching out to professional painters to get the job done. Some of the best productivity-enhancing hues include yellows, oranges, greens, pale pinks, and sky blue.
The addition of artwork and photographs can bring life to the workplace, inspiring creativity. Paired with soothing nature elements, such as plants or wood-based materials, you can help build a rush of positive energy while establishing a calming and stress-free atmosphere.
The importance of flexible time
Is the 9 to 5 routine still valid? The answer is no. Employees crave more flexibility so they can achieve a better work/life balance. In other words, even in an office environment, flexibility can not only get the work done, but it can get it done faster. Most people are aware of their peak productivity times, and allowing them to focus their energy when they are at their most productive can transform your business turnaround. In short, productivity is not to be measured in terms of how long and when a person works at their desk.
Productivity is a metric of success. But despite being instrumental to growth, it remains mostly misunderstood by organizations. It’s time to build workplaces that put their employees’ needs first.
