One cannot deny that the comfort of a workplace significantly impacts employee productivity and creativity. However, not everyone is aware of this. As an employer, you must know that your employees’ eagerness to work hard may depend on how comfortable they are in their environment. This article will serve as a guide for you to make sure your employees are satisfied at work.
The importance of a comfortable workplace
The workplace is somewhere most people spend the majority of their time. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average American worker spends 8.8 hours daily at work. Therefore, it’s essential that the office is comfortable to maintain productivity and positivity amongst employees. Here are three reasons why a comfortable workplace is essential:
- Productivity: Numerous studies have shown that there is a direct correlation between comfort and productivity in the workplace. One study showed that workers with adjustable desks were 46% more productive than those who did not have them. Furthermore, another study found that employees with access to natural light were more effective.
- Retention: If your office is uncomfortable, you will have high turnover rates as employees will look for jobs elsewhere. Not only is this bad for morale, but it’s also bad for your bottom line as it costs money to constantly train new employees.
- Recruitment: A comfortable workplace will also help with recruitment, as potential candidates want to work in an office that meets their needs. In addition, millennials are now the largest generation in the workforce and place high importance on working in an environment that promotes work-life balance and well-being.
Creating a comfortable space
As an employer, you want your employees to be productive and efficient while they’re at work. But did you know that the physical environment of your office plays a significant role in how comfortable your employees feel? If you want to create a comfortable workplace, here are a few things you can do:
Invest in your office pantry
The office pantry is that one place in the office where everyone congregates to take a break, have a snack, or chat with colleagues. Because it’s such a popular spot, you want to ensure it’s comfortable and inviting.
One of the best things you can do to improve your pantry is to add a tankless water heater. However, this can’t be a DIY project. You’ll need to hire the experts. The installation of tankless water heaters usually takes about two to three hours, and professional installers will make sure it’s done correctly. Not only will your employees appreciate having hot water available, but they’ll also enjoy the convenience of not waiting for the kettle to boil.
Consider the ergonomics of your office furniture
When remodeling your workplace, consider the ergonomics of your office furniture. Ergonomic furniture supports the body in a neutral position, reducing strain and promoting proper posture. This can lead to increased productivity and reduced risk of injury. When shopping for ergonomic furniture, look for adjustable features such as height-adjustable desks and chairs with customizeable armrests and lumbar support. Taking the time to invest in ergonomic furniture can improve the health and well-being of your employees, ultimately leading to a more successful business.
Bring in some plants
Many people spend their days working in office environments, surrounded by screens and fluorescent lights. It can be easy to forget that bringing nature into the workplace can have several positive effects on employees. Not only do plants add aesthetic value to a workspace, but they also have been shown to improve air quality and reduce stress levels.
Additionally, studies have shown that having plants in the workplace can increase productivity and creativity. So why not liven up your office with some strategically placed greenery? Not only will it improve morale among employees, but it could also lead to improved overall job performance.
Incorporate natural light
Did you know that natural light can have a positive impact on workplace productivity? According to a study conducted by Heschong Mahone Group, office workers with access to natural light reported higher levels of satisfaction and better overall cognitive function. In addition to improving employee morale and focus, incorporating natural light into the workplace can also save energy and reduce electricity costs. So how can employers create a comfortable work environment that takes advantage of natural light? One option is installing exterior windows or skylights to bring in more sunlight. If this is not possible, consider rearranging desks or adding mirrors to reflect available light throughout the space.
Final thoughts
These are just a few ideas to get you started on remodeling your workplace for comfort and productivity. By taking the time to create a well-designed office space, you’ll be able to foster a more positive work environment for your employees. And happy employees lead to a successful business!
