9 secrets to improve employee experience using office design
What we know: there is a Canada-wide labor shortage. And the situation has only worsened since the pandemic. Imagine the financial losses... In short, this is a bad time and companies are literally tearing off employees.
That is why we offer to you the 9 secrets to improving employee experience with office design. These ideas are not just aesthetic: they will help attract potential candidates, retain loyal employees, and increase productivity and happiness in your office. Rethinking design is a worthwhile investment!
“69% of businesses that implemented healthy building features reported improvements in employee satisfaction and engagement.” Dodge Analytics
Take our word for it, you have no choice but to reinvent your office to stay in the game. And there are several solutions, so let's go.
Nature is everywhere!
Biophilic office concept
Green, vibrant, plants, wood and natural materials are trending! In more technical terms, we are talking about biophilic design, or how to reconnect humans with nature.
We have spent hundreds of thousands of years living in the forest. Today, we spend the vast majority of our time within four walls, often in the city, breathing much less pure air… A little depressing, right?
Thanks to biophilic design, the air quality is improved, and the same can be said for happiness and efficiency! In fact, in offices, we notice an "improvement in productivity rates of 8%, well-being of 13%, and an increase in creativity while reducing absenteeism rates".
Plus, plants everywhere are beautiful for the eyes AND good for the soul. Moreover, our premium phone booth offers you the possibility for personalization. For example, you can choose between shades of green, or even a vinyl printed with a visual of nature. Just let us know!
2. Gone are the days of a rigid… and boring office
We are truly witnessing a revolution in the workplace. Today, we want our work area to be flexible: to allow us to work standing up, or even rolled up to the desired location. A bit like our acoustic cabins that can be easily moved around the office. In short, furniture that can be moved according to our desires is becoming the norm.
What if the office doesn't allow such flexibility? Employees are offered height adjustable platforms or desk lifts.
In fact, according to a study, 43% of respondents reported a huge increase in their performance while using a standing desk. So, it would be crazy to do without!
3. Here comes the sun!
An office in a windowless basement? No thanks. Just imagining it is kind of depressing. To work well, we need vitamin D, and therefore, light (natural, ideally!).
Being able to look outside the workplace is not a luxury for everyone, but at least we need to provide the employee with a well-lit environment, with as many windows as possible. Because natural light has many benefits:
Better sleep
Reduced energy costs
Less eye strain
Higher productivity
Boosts mood
Not bad, right? Moreover, our acoustic cabins are all equipped with a motion detector, allowing the light to turn on and off automatically. The light can also be dimmed according to the employee’s preference.
And why not take it a step further, and protect your employees' eyes? Some popular solutions include protective glasses for blue light, and blue light filters for computer screens.
4. Peace and quiet
Kubicule Premium
After more than a year spent working from home, we can't stand office noise like we used to. It will be essential to offer more peace and privacy to the employees. We talk about it in our article "Office of the future: 7 upcoming transformations".
Obviously, our acoustic booths offer a top quality solution for secluding yourself when you need a little calm to concentrate, or when you need to make a call without disturbing the whole group!
5. Sensitivity isn’t lost on us!
A comfortable employee is a happy employee who... works better! An ergonomic chair is not a luxury, but a need. The same goes for a desk at the right height or an anti-fatigue mat. Lucky for you, we equip our standard phone booth with an anti-fatigue mat, and an ergonomic tabletop.
Your employees' legs AND backs are sure to thank you. And again, ergonomic environments are an investment. Less tendonitis, fewer injuries AND fewer health insurance claims.
6. Feels like home
Warm spaces that give the impression of a living room are a must! A space where you can breathe easy, surrounded by plants, a soft sofa, cushions, and maybe even a table to put your feet on (for the more daring!). This type of place also allows for more friendly, relaxed and creative exchanges or brainstorms between employees.
In addition, it is recommended that the employee be offered different types of places to work. Because changing the environment activates creativity and changes perspective!
7. Hot topic: the hybrid office
Open spaces are here to stay. The same goes for the growth of coworking offices. But, there is a way to go for a hybrid approach. On the one hand, an open and collaborative place, and on the other, flexible spaces where you can focus on important deliverables.
There are now mobile walls (yes!) And of course, phone booths like the ones we offer. As shared in our last blog post, 52% of employees say they are most productive if they work in a distraction-free environment.
8. The kitchen is the heart of the home the office
The kitchen is the heart of a home... and the office! This is where employees can catch their breath, socialize, have a snack or meal, and relax. Offer them a cozy and warm place, which encourages discussion.
As a bonus, a quality coffee machine will definitely lift everyone’s mood!
9. Survey management
What could be better than asking your most trusted employees what they are lacking for a better office experience? Seeking their feedback will not only increase their engagement, but you'll also be sure to put in place initiatives that they really like.
Why not send them a survey, or even organize a co-creation session on the future of your office design?
These are our 9 secrets for a successful design and office life! Ultimately, this is a bit of common sense. When you feel well equipped, comfortable, inspired and considered, there isn't much needed to accomplish great things.
See you soon!