The idea of being comfortable at work used to be laughed off as a joke. These days, however, things are a little different. Studies suggest that higher levels of employee comfort are linked to higher levels of productivity. So, the next time you or one of your workers moans about their posture or difficulty in using a piece of equipment, you should take note.
Solving those issues might well result in a more efficient workplace. Here are some of the things you should watch out for.
The Difference Between ‘Comfort’ And ‘Work Comfort.’
First of all, the way we talk about comfort at home is different to the comfort we need at work.
At home, comfort is all about relaxation and luxury. In the workplace, however, it’s more about being free of distractions such as pain and noise.
In fact, too much comfort at work can lead to productivity dips – to quite significant levels.
So, we aren’t talking about giving everyone duck feather pillows, here. We’re removing blockages and barriers to people doing a better, more efficient job.
Temperature
First of all, let’s start with something that will make an immediate difference to your workplace: temperature.
While there is a delicate balance to achieve between hot and cold, it is essential to get it right.
We all know the effects of offices that are too hot – people feel tired, sleepy, and tend to get nothing done. But go too far in the opposite direction, and it can have a similar impact.
You want employees to have complete focus on the task at hand, not be thinking of warmer or cooler environments. It’s a big distraction that will cost you in output.
Furniture
Desk spaces and office furniture can also be a big productivity killer.
Ergonomics – the study of the effects of the work environment – states that it is critical to get the right furniture for the right people. It’s not about relaxation – it’s more about being free of pain.
According to Office Chairs Only, the ability for people to adjust their processes and positions can have a big impact. Not only will it help them focus on their work, but they will also spend less time complaining to others.
Office moaners have the ability to spread unproductivity and take up other worker’s time. Don’t give them the opportunity to complain, and you should see productivity levels remain high.
Company Culture
Finally, it’s important to take a look at the culture of your business as a whole.
Are you pushing people to work hard for 10 hours at a time? If so, how can you be sure that every hour worked is delivering the best ROI?
Encouraging employee breaks gives people the chance to recoup and re-energize. You will find that the traditional afternoon lull reduces by a significant amount.
Also, consider issues like nutrition and not just for losing weight purposes. Are sugary, fatty snacks in the workplace harming your productivity?
People will reach for them when hungry, but it’s a short-term high. Unhealthy food almost always causes a crash in energy levels after a couple of hours.
Put on healthier snacks, and you will notice another big difference.