The spaces we occupy can define who we are and affect how we behave and feel. Businesses increasingly need to consider how the workplace environments they create will influence the performance and productivity of their employees.
Companies like Google lead the way in creating office spaces that allow employees to work hard and play hard. In some offices, there is a putting green, massage chairs and games room with free arcade games. Google’s new office in London will feature an open-air swimming pool, an indoor football pitch, a climbing wall and a roof garden.
Not many companies have Google’s budget; however with employees spending many of their working hours sitting at the same desk, it’s important to allow them the freedom to personalise and optimise their work station.
There is no set formula for designing a productive workspace – one may think a cluttered space fuels creativity, while others believe that a clear desk facilitates a clear mind. Therefore, it is up to the individual to design his or her workplace to boost their own output.
Here are some simple and effective tips gathered by Randstad to redefine your workspace to get the most out of your working day:
clear the clutter
Despite the move towards paperless offices, common sources of clutter still include printed emails, conference papers and business cards.
Embrace new technological tools designed to help manage the amount of paper you shuffle, or try to go completely paperless.
From smartphone apps which help you store business cards to scanners that transfer important receipts and external documents to your computer, there’s no reason to have a desk littered with paper that could be stored on your hard drive.
add splashes of colour
Colour psychology plays an important role in determining people’s behaviour and mood. When designing your space, consider what type of mood you’re trying to achieve.
Do you want to be motivated, happy, relaxed or optimistic?
- Blue creates a relaxed mood and encourages concentration, stimulating workers to perform at a higher level.
- Green makes people feel refreshed and symbolises nature, evoking a sense of calm.
- White is popular because it is light and neutral, appears more spacious, and encourages an optimistic mood.
- Red is the most emotionally intense colour that stimulates a faster heartbeat. While it increases energy and has motivational qualities, only splashes of red are recommended for the workplace.
- Yellow is the most cheerful colour of all and induces feelings of happiness and boosts morale; however, too much can be too bright for the eye to take in.
personalise your space
Personalising your workspace by adding your own individual touch has been proven to also enhance productivity. A personalised desk reduces stress and makes staff feel more connected, so add your favourite artwork, powerful images, positive quotes or family photos to help boost your mood.
With the pressures of looming deadlines and escalating piles of work, it is easy to neglect your workspace. However, taking the time now to create a workspace that makes you feel happy and energised will help boost productivity in the long run.
