Office work gets a bad reputation – and for good reason. Most office spaces are not designed to support employee health, happiness, and productivity. Recently, however, that has been changing. As employers recognize the importance of workforce morale, there have been pushes to modernize the standard American workplace in ways that boost employee mental health.
Are you an employer seeking to revamp your office space? Here are five ways you can do so.
Comfortable furniture is essential for any office space. You can get a good deal on commercial office furniture by buying pre-used or wholesale pieces. The most important piece of furniture? Good chairs. Cushioned, ergonomic chairs make for a happier, healthier workforce.
Being surrounded by boring beiges, weak whites, and gloomy grays can make employees feel sluggish and uninspired. Revive your walls by adding color. Warm colors – such as yellow, orange, and red – inspire optimism and passion. Cool colors – like blue, green, and purple – promote calmness and tranquility.
If painting your walls is not an option, try adding accent pieces with color. Hanging art, potted plants, and colorful office supplies are good, inexpensive options.
Add an organic touch to your workplace with live plants. Plants absorb airborne toxins, reduce stress, and are pleasant to the eye. Plus, your employees can bond over nurturing shared flowers, shrubs, and succulents.
Constant work is not good for your employees; in fact, it can hinder their overall performance. Build a comfortable breakroom where people can be screen-free and work-free for a while. Stock it with healthy snacks and a water source, such as a sink or a water cooler. Coffee and tea are effective mood-lifters, so invest in a coffee maker and an electric kettle.
If possible, have a second break space somewhere outside, such as a balcony, patio, or deck. Fresh air and a dose of vitamin D will further help your employees.
Once you have created your work-free zones, actively encourage your employees to take breaks. According to a study conducted by the Draugiem Group, their most productive employees worked 52 minutes on average and then took 17-minute breaks between work sessions. This allowed their workers to restore their focus and reinvigorate their minds. A quick walk, basic yoga, and even idle chit-chat can help combat mental burnout.
Your employees are your most important resource. To enable them to work at their full capacity, support them by providing an office space that works for them.
