Workplaces are single-handedly one of the most important aspects of any organization. A healthy and energetic workplace helps build a happier workforce. This is conducive to driving productivity, resulting in more profits for a company. The notion that workspaces do not have any effect on motivation and energy is rather outdated. A work environment with near to no attention to its liveliness, ease-of-use, and employee stress levels can be a direct cause of several physical illnesses.
Whether it’s employee interaction, the warm aroma of fresh coffee, or even the infrastructure and furniture, there’s a certain “vibe” healthy office spaces exude that nothing compares to! Curious to know how it’s all made possible? Well today, we’ll be exploring exactly how you can take your workspace up a notch and witness a transformation in employee satisfaction and well-being like no other.
Proximity and Relations
When we address proximity, it’s important to look at certain factors such as: How closely is everyone working in one space? How is the space organized with relevant equipment? How many employees are present in the office on average?
Concerning the energy of office space, a study (and theory) called the Allen Curve illustrates how just keeping employees close to each other spurs more discussions and communication. Of course, keeping a safe distance (6 meters) would be necessary due to Covid-19 safety regulations.
It also revealed that workspaces that force workers to be distant (15-50 meters) from each other cause the interaction frequency to fall by half. This finding clearly illustrates the positive effect interpersonal communication between co-workers nearby has on employee morale and productivity.
At Max Estates, there are facilities such as open sit-out spaces and a terrace where you can catch up with your colleagues. Did we mention there’s also a herb garden that releases antioxidants to boost up your immune system?
Even relationships between managers and employees are affected by workplace arrangements. Company leaders who are more visible within the workplace have a better understanding of their team, and interactions with employees lower the perceived psychological distance between an individual employee and their manager.
Natural Lights
Natural lighting contributes positively to an employee’s productivity and levels of energy. A workspace environment with poor or harsh artificial lighting induces multiple detrimental effects such as fatigue, eye strain, headaches, and also worsens conditions like Seasonal Affective Disorder or [SAD].
A study by the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology discovered that employees who worked in natural light had a much higher level of energy in comparison to employees working in artificially lit settings.
Natural lighting is just one aspect of biophilic design. When you add more natural elements such as fountains, indoor plants, and radiant colors such as yellow or blue for walls, they lighten up your entire workplace, breaking up the monotony of drab decor. In a study poll of 1,614 North American employees, it was found that 43% of employees have revealed that they feel gloomy as a result of the absence of light.
This is why fostering a flourishing and healthy workplace is incredibly significant. When all factors of an employee’s well-being are taken care of, it enhances employee engagement as well as their performance and productivity.
On the topic of natural lighting, Max Estates shines here too, with efficient window designs and large spaces, sunlight penetrates easily giving you a warm and fresh workplace everyday. Our light settings are also built on sun tracking, ensuring minimal artificial light and maximizing natural sunlight as much as possible.
Organizing Active and Motivational Events
One of the ways to keep a high energy flow atmosphere is by organizing events to motivate employees. Such activities allow employees to interact with each other on non-work-related topics and allow them to be acquainted with their colleagues on a personal level. This establishes an active and collaborative working environment which is a great way to energize employees when they’re not in high spirits.
When employees participate in group activities with enthusiasm, it boosts them to function actively. For instance, the positive interaction between a group leader and their teammates during an event can help build better relationships. A good example of this is of reputed companies like Zingerman’s. They organize events and sessions and have noticed how employees and frontline workers reflect the motivation to quite an extent!
Max Estates has a unique way of taking care of events. We use our concept of Pulse where we schedule monthly events on weekdays or weekends, in a variety of genres that impart to employees a fun-filled learning experience while ensuring their day-to-day well-being with smart biophilic office designs. There are even break rooms where employees can decompress if they prefer to be alone. Further, another aspect not many take notice of is ergonomically arranged workspaces. Max Estates also takes precautions for any potential repetitive stress injuries, like having ergonomic desks and reclining chairs with lumbar support.
In conclusion, companies must continuously seek out various types of upgrades to improve the quality of work and to maintain the mental and physical health of employees. However, simple and effective solutions like allowing natural light in the workplace, building better relationships by reducing distance, and organizing fun events can surely elevate the productivity and performance of employees.
