Perhaps in 2021, more than any time in the past, entrepreneurs and companies around the globe realized the impact physical space and work environment have on the productivity and engagement levels of the employees. But the data has been out for some time. Research from 2016 shows 99% of those with high well-being and organizational support recommend their company as a great place to work.
Work practices have evolved and employees have long realized their needs beyond pay and perks. The brand value associated with any organization speaks through its office space and work culture. But while a new office is not limited to the physical confines of office space but extends to several other facets, the workspace is, of course, its core. An office design with functionality and aesthetics in mind can go a long way in elevating employee experience.
Office Ergonomics
A thoughtfully designed workspace helps make employees comfortable and more focused. A clutter of space can in no way propel productivity while an assortment of furniture in an open space can foster interactions, collaborations, and community spirit among the employees. Let’s look at a few elements that enhance the ergonomics of any office space:
a) Office Furniture: A study posits that better layout designs can boost work output by 21%. Nowadays, some organizations seek innovative and offbeat seating arrangements from convertible work desks to comfy bean bags and even exercise ball seats for the health and well-being of the employees.
b) Lighting: A well-lit office space boosts cortisol levels in our body and helps in building a positive psyche. Poorly lit and even artificially lit office spaces tend to appear constricted and claustrophobic. Naturally-lit office spaces liberate the senses and enhance satisfaction levels in employees.
c) Artwork and Decor: A tastefully decorated space can instantly enliven mood and hence, productivity levels among employees. Artworks, strategically placed, kickstart creativity, and innovation. The decor should speak for the philosophy and vision of the brand. The color palette of decor and walls is another element that can elevate the experience of any new office.
d) Office Temperature: The optimum temperature for a workplace is somewhere between 20-degree Celsius to 25-degree Celsius. At times, faulty centralized air-conditioning leaves the floor unevenly cooled affecting the concentration levels of the employees. Studies report that the right office temperature can boost the output yield by 150%!
e) Biophilia: The addition of plants and green spaces to any office space not only improves the air quality and adds to the health benefits but also acts as a catalyst for productivity.
At Max Estates, each element – from biophilia and art gallery to the lighting and design of the office spaces – has been meticulously and thoughtfully worked upon under our WorkWell philosophy. Our zero Capex solutions ensure customizations to the finest degree to match the office space to the various requirements and brand image of the organization.
Employee Engagement
As per a survey, 75% of the companies deal with overwhelmed employees, trying to jot down the reasons for disengagement rather than working towards dealing with the issue. Traditional setups have given way to the workforce scattered across the globe. This raises serious leadership crisis and management issues for modern organizations seeking to retain talent and increase employee engagement.
91% of employee participants with both high well-being and organizational support report higher intent to stay, and when employees feel their employer cares about their well-being, they’re 38% more engaged. ~Well-Being and Engagement Report
Employee well-being comprises physical, financial, emotional, and work well-being. When the employees feel well-taken care of, they are more engaged. Employers need to push their boundaries towards better-focused well-being, engagement, inclusion, and communications strategy.
a) An employee should receive organizational support across the whole company be it with managers, team, social networks, leadership, peers, and culture. The physical environment should be equipped with appropriate wellbeing tools and programs to make the employee comfortable and enthused.
b) Communication channels should foster the free flow of thoughts and ideas. Employee feedback and their rapport with their immediate managers are crucial for engagement.
c) Measuring the engagement efforts is prime to leverage the efforts to the right people at the right system in the entire ecosystem of the organization. The approach towards such programs should be data-driven, coordinated, and connected for boosting mutual trust
d) Employee benefit surveys and employee journey maps are some of the tools to understand the specific needs of the employees.
Workforce Health
“Good health is good business.” – Paul Dreschler, Chairman, Bibby Line Group
A healthy and happy workforce can be the prime driver for organizational success. It contributes to employee engagement and productivity. Workplace stress, poor air quality, unfriendly work culture, and improper working conditions are some of the pain points affecting employee health. Here’s how to tackle them:
a) Proper provisions and technologies should be in place to deal with poor air quality and lighting. For instance, Max Estates uses the MERV 13 equivalent filters, solar PV for energy, minimized AC area footprint, and ample natural ventilation to ensure optimum air quality.
b) Provision of amenities such as a gym, shopping complex, food court, lounge area, childcare facilities provides for the recreational, fitness, and other personal needs of the employees. This relieves them of the additional stress and results in more personal time.
c) Other specific programs such as sick time, paid parental leave, paid vacations, regular health checkups should be well implemented to elevate the employee experience.
d) Employers should take into consideration the preferences of the employees regarding the kind of perks they desire. An employee may prefer additional benefits over a pay rise, or health insurance over other allowances. By including such insights employers can better integrate the employees into the organization.
Work Culture
Employees in a high-trust culture who experience a caring workplace are 44% more likely to work for a company with above-average revenue growth.
An all-inclusive multicultural and dynamic work culture is the upholstery that brings together an organization’s brand and vision. It is the first impression for a prospective employee and a reason to stay for the existing employees. Employee experience and company culture complement each other. Employers can focus on the following parameters concerning work culture and practices:
a) Well-defined organizational purpose and individual roles and responsibilities are the cultural foundations to be adhered to.
b) Flexible working conditions and personalized physical spaces further initiate a positive work culture.
c) Strong Leadership and dedicated management provide the necessary bolts to tauten the gears of work culture and healthy HR practices to keep it moving in the right direction.
People are the most critical asset for organizations and this realization within the corporate community is, fortunately, pushing the need to work on employee experience, engagement, and health. Unique permutations and combinations might work for a particular organization, given its character and goals. But the amalgamation of experience with office settings and culture isn’t new and is being recognized by business leaders across the globe!
