What Makes An Ideal Office?

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Have you ever wondered if there were some positive changes that you could make to your working environment in order to enhance success rates and, as a result, expand your business?

 

If you are in a managerial role, then you will realise just how much thought and consideration has to go in to the wellbeing of people who are under your wing. It can become very easy to get caught up in the statistics of a successful business and forget that the people getting the job done for you have thoughts and feelings. So, what can you do to ensure that you have a happy and productive workforce at all times? Implementing HR Software would be a good place to start. This software helps you to stay on top of employee matters, ensuring that they receive the treatment they deserve. It also works as an excellent organisation tool, meaning you will no longer feel the stress of having too much weight on your shoulders. You could also look at getting a serviced office like Loc8 Commercial, to reduce some stress of looking after the office.

This infographic displays the results of a survey which many office workers took throughout Britain, to help establish what an ideal office would be like. It is worth taking some tips from this guide, as the public have spoken and been honest about what they would wish to see in the perfect office. With matters such as team bonding, office perks and office hours taken in to consideration, you can really benefit from the results shown!

 

1679 COMMENTS

  1. When managers are aware of how the employees’ hospitality, the seamless operation of front and back of the house functions combined the psychology of creating an environment where guests “Feel” special.
    Same goes when you listen to your people within the organization, you’ll feel extra special.

  2. I excel at shaping and executing marketing messages- and few things are more thrilling than being able to get in at the ground floor to work with people who are just as passionate as I am about helping a business succeed. Humor is great- too- and when I read the description for this job- everything fell into place.

  3. What makes a perfect working space? Does being a neat freak really make you more productive? Last month Wired editor-in-chief Scott Dadich argued the case for office desks free from coffee stains, scribbled notes and all other traces of human presence. Meanwhile, the Guardian’s Steven Poole advocated the profitable benefits of messiness. So who is right?

  4. A Plaza acts as the vibrant and dynamic heart of the landscape, a place where people can intuitively take the pulse of the organization. They are open, welcoming, public spaces situated at major intersections and highly trafficked areas of the work environment. They support a diverse range of experiences and populations. A Plaza encourages mixing and mingling, enables multiple work activities simultaneously, helps broadcast information, and provides amenities as a point of attraction.

  5. It offers easy access to analog and digital tools and surfaces to display and create work. People should always be able to see and hear each other easily—even when not physically present. A variety of postures and distinct groupings of mobile furniture allow people to choose and arrange how space best suits their work in the moment. Adequate circulation space encourages movement.

  6. Prior to a meeting, it provides a gathering space for attendees. After, it takes advantage of the visual continuity between the landing and its contiguous meeting space as an aid to contextual memory and helps drive the work that happens in this Setting. Accommodations that welcome a brief gathering drive the utility of each Landing.

  7. A Cove is a compact space within proximity to individual work points or common areas that enables people to assemble and engage with each other for a short period of time. A Cove may also accommodate remote participants with provisions for fixed and personal technology. Enough boundary to avoid disrupting others is essential—especially with the addition of technology. Territorial by nature, Coves are used more readily by the people working nearest to them.

  8. A Cove may also accommodate remote participants with provisions for fixed and personal technology. Enough boundary to avoid disrupting others is essential—especially with the addition of technology. Territorial by nature, Coves are used more readily by the people working nearest to them.

  9. A variety of individual and group work points with ergonomic seating enable people to freely and intuitively cycle between tasks and activities as they use a variety of fixed, mobile, personal, and remote technology. Maintaining proximity and the identity of the team within the Clubhouse helps drive the work that occurs there. A Clubhouse should offer ample surfaces to display and share in-process work. This Setting has defined edges with porosity for visual access.

  10. For this reason, they tend to be located along highly trafficked routes, or adjacent to busy intersections within the landscape. A Jump Space may help connect people from disparate locations or teams who otherwise would not meet. It can be configured with comfortable seating and with bar or table-height surfaces.

  11. A Jump Space consists of highly usable work points that facilitate temporary work between other activities. For this reason, they tend to be located along highly trafficked routes, or adjacent to busy intersections within the landscape. A Jump Space may help connect people from disparate locations or teams who otherwise would not meet. It can be configured with comfortable seating and with bar- or table-height surfaces.

  12. A Hive is a space where numerous people can do a diverse range of work harmoniously. The Setting offers a grouping of individual work points and ergonomic seating. Variances in the spatial division, storage density, and boundary define the character of the space and help nurture the diverse types of work that occur there. Further ergonomic considerations may include the optimal placement of fixed and adjustable technology.

  13. A Haven is a small shelter where focused work can be done without distraction or alternatively, a place to unwind. It can be an enclosed room, such as a private office, or a semi-sheltered or screened-in space out in the open. Depending on its intended use, the Setting may offer a work surface and ergonomic seating or take on a more relaxed feel. It should also easily accommodate the use of personal technology and other tools. A shared Haven must be easily locatable in the landscape.

  14. As any good cook makes a recipe unique by flavoring it to her own taste, so too can an organization customize the Settings to reflect its culture, identity, and aspirations. Says Greg Parsons, Vice President of Landscape Environments, “A workplace with the right mix of Settings, tailored to the character and purpose of the organization, sets people free to realize their potential. It enriches everyone’s experiences and improves performance.” In this type of environment, people can do their best, and both individuals and the organization can prosper.

  15. Designing a Living Office Landscape is a lot like cooking a complex dish, or at least that’s how Lori Gee, Herman Miller’s Vice President of Applied Insight sees it. “Herman Miller’s Settings are spatial recipes,” she says. “They attend to the cognitive, social, behavioral, and physical needs identified by the Modes of Work—a range of activities people engage in, no matter what they do or where they work.”

  16. Herman Miller’s Living Office provides people with a variety of Settings—spaces optimized to support work and interaction. Each of the 10 Settings is distinct in purpose, scale, and sociability. The right mix can foster an office landscape where people can immediately grasp where they can go and what they can do to achieve their goals.

  17. The extraordinary building they were in, equal parts spaceship and womb, was more significant than they knew. Rising above an unprepossessing demolition site to the west, it brings together about 2,000 staff who had previously been spread across the borough. The prize it has won is a major endorsement of a controversial approach to development that’s now being taken by councils across the country. The kids didn’t care about all that, though. They just wanted to have a go at the percussion.

  18. Doing a thorough research on available furnished office space in Bangalore is sure to help the person to take the right decision in his favor and get an office space that can help propel his business and achieve sure success. Furthermore, being fully furnished, the coworking space does become an ideal business set up for all entrepreneurs so that they can focus efficiently and effectively on promoting their business.

  19. The fact is that coworking is the in-thing now and its demand has been increasing rapidly. To meet this demand, the workspace owners have been trying to have their typical office space to be turned into coworking space, to accommodate a maximum number of entrepreneurs, individuals, and freelancers, who are eager to try out their luck in business, without the huge expense or hassles attached.

  20. Doing some research can help the person not only to find a suitable place in a wonderful location, but also very low rents that are sure not to bother the new entrepreneurs, who generally are seen to be low on funds. Most of the coworking office spaces are furnished and there are several choices to choose, ranging from meeting rooms, event spaces, training, private cabins, open desks and the like.

  21. The individual does not have to bother about requiring searching for the most appropriate facilities and furniture that is otherwise required by every business or need hefty security deposits. These days, there are available easily coworking spaces, which one has to find and select according to their specific requirements, budget, and convenience.

  22. Doing a thorough research on available furnished office space in Bangalore is sure to help the person to take the right decision in his favor and get an office space that can help propel his business and achieve sure success. Furthermore, being fully furnished, the coworking space does become an ideal business set up for all entrepreneurs so that they can focus efficiently and effectively on promoting their business.

  23. The fact is that coworking is the in-thing now and its demand has been increasing rapidly. To meet this demand, the workspace owners have been trying to have their typical office space to be turned into coworking space, to accommodate a maximum number of entrepreneurs, individuals, and freelancers, who are eager to try out their luck in business, without the huge expense or hassles attached.

  24. Coworking space does provide the individual with plenty of facilities include low rents. Doing some research can help the person not only to find a suitable place in a wonderful location, but also very low rents that are sure not to bother the new entrepreneurs, who generally are seen to be low on funds. Most of the coworking office spaces are furnished and there are several choices to choose, ranging from meeting rooms, event spaces, training, private cabins, open desks and the like.

  25. The individual does not have to bother about requiring searching for the most appropriate facilities and furniture that is otherwise required by every business or need hefty security deposits. These days, there are available easily coworking spaces, which one has to find and select according to their specific requirements, budget, and convenience.

  26. We had to include a picture that featured one of our favorite office accessories: headphones. No matter where you work (by yourself or in a group), having the ability to tune everything out can be a great blessing. Do you find music helps you get things done? What kind of music is your “productivity” playlist made of?

  27. We like the look, but does anyone else notice how far up the keyboard is for someone sitting in that chair? We’ve found that reaching too much to type can really take a toll throughout the day (and week, and month). How do you like to sit at the office desk: straight up, or more relaxed? Where’s the ideal place for that keyboard?

  28. A traditional office: big chair, a big desk, plenty of light, maybe a wall mural or piece of artwork. While not the “cool” thing anymore, there’s still something to be said for clearly defined boundaries of “work” and leisure,” and with an office like this one that line is pretty clear. Is this kind of executive suite still a thing to be sought after, or do you think its time has gone?

  29. Lots of space, lots of collaborative areas, short on privacy. Not the place answer your cell phone. For those of you who’ve worked in this environment: do you find yourself working more when surrounded by others, or less? Does the constant interaction energize or drain you?

  30. We’re not sure the name “cubicle” really fits; sure, it’s built off the cubicle concept, and it could certainly fit in a cubicle-sized space, but it’s way cooler. There’s a best of both worlds feel to it, as it’s open enough to allow chance meetings but closed enough to cut down on some of the distractions.

  31. The answer depends on what gets the most done: simplicity, focus, collaboration, prestige. We’ve tried many different office scenarios, and even after 30 years, we’re still figuring out the best way to get things done for ourselves and our clients.

  32. Some people dream of the big executive office; you know, the one with the big desk and penthouse view. Certainly, that was the goal of the last century. However, other, newer, workplaces focus on open spaces. Our friends down at the Hub here in Raleigh offer lots of areas that are wide open, and a good number of startups have “brought down the walls” to encourage cooperation and group work. Yahoo! CEO Marissa Mayer recently made waves when she announced that all employees would be required to come to the office instead of working from home.

  33. Use Architizer. No, seriously—at least to scope out projects, and find out what you like. Once you find out what you like, find someone that you like. There’s a relationship aspect to working with an architect, too. You should choose someone you can get along with because the building process is a long and intimate one.

  34. I’d recommend they don’t just go for a look “oh, someone used recycled wood, let’s do that” but rather focus on the functionality. Make a room list, and give an accurate brief of what programmatic spaces you need and what connections each of those requirements, and what kind of space it is. Is it a quiet space? Is it in the center of activity? Is it a sunny space? Basically, that kind of spreadsheet will save a lot of time, and the architect doesn’t need to come in and play analyst. He or she can get right to work.

  35. That’s not to say these systems can’t be aestheticized, too. Think about the Pompidou Center in Paris. We’ve all seen air-conditioning ducts installed beautifully. They can be something nice in and of themselves. All it really needs is a consideration—looking for the answer within the material itself.

  36. Maybe the trend is the rejection of the cubicle. You just conjure visions of Working Girl when you think about old cubicles. I think what people are experimenting with is getting that privacy without sequestering people into that defined space. Innovative approaches to privacy—those are interesting.

  37. Maybe the ultimate version of this concept is what I call the “box within the box” concept. Companies are experimenting with creating a sort of private space that’s perhaps transparent, but quiet for a worker. The creative process becomes something unfolding in an aquarium … something to watch happen. It’s an update of an old idea.

  38. It’s fun to see people fool around with that idea. From the pool tables of the nineties to the bean bag chairs of the dot-com boom, common spaces are changing, and becoming not just rest areas, but productive areas. In our Coolest Offices competition, we saw a couple of examples of interior amphitheaters, where either a presentation could be held, or a collaborative meeting. That’s new and interesting.

  39. Specifically, you see a clear trend towards casual gathering spaces being a place to not just congregate, but also to actually do work, the employee lounge is now being used as part of the creative process. It’s fun to see people fool around with that idea. From the pool tables of the nineties to the bean bag chairs of the dot-com boom, common spaces are changing, and becoming not just rest areas, but productive areas. In our Coolest Offices competition, we saw a couple of examples of interior amphitheaters, where either a presentation could be held, or a collaborative meeting. That’s new and interesting.

  40. On a larger scale, in-fill—the idea of repurposing entire buildings—is big. In cities, in particular, cool people are always on the vanguard of turning unused spaces into something useful. And in urban areas, unexpected office projects are popping up more frequently.

  41. Green architecture was all about finding the most environmentally-friendly products, but I think that has shifted. Today, it’s not about finding the most ecological countertop; it’s using less countertop—or repurposing and recycling a countertop. Think about it: If you don’t cover your ceiling with another layer of material, you’ve saved a huge amount of carbon in the manufacturing of that material, the transporting of that material, and the installation of that material. Not to mention cost.

  42. With the innovation of more human control over the atmosphere—electric lights and air conditioning—all of a sudden, offices were liberated from the window, which meant that architects could design incredibly deep floor plans. This over-control of the environment has been a detriment to the American worker. In Europe, there are laws that a desk cannot be more than a few feet from a window—the notion of an office without windows is actually illegal in Europe. In the States, only now is the trend changing back to a healthier, more natural way of building.

  43. It can become very easy to get caught up in business and financial matters, rather than paying attention to the wants and needs of employees. Taking time to listen to their preferences and actually implement the changes that they wish to see will make remarkable changes for both you and your business.

  44. Ensuring that employees are happy in their working environment is extremely important as happiness is the main contributor to a productive and motivated team. Cezanne HR carried out a survey to establish what Britain would deem as their ideal office, taking a huge variety of factors into consideration.

  45. A building can positively affect ability by providing comfortable ambient conditions, by enabling individual control and adjustment of conditions, and by reducing health and safety risks. Negative impacts on the ability to do work are associated with conditions that are uncomfortable, distracting, hazardous or noxious.

  46. We spend a great deal of our lives in the office (although this will reduce as SaaS, and other technologies that allow us to work from anywhere, increase in popularity) and feeling comfortable is a priority when it comes to productivity, good health and mental wellbeing.

  47. People believe that working by daylight results in less stress and discomfort than working by electric light and that working by electric lighting is detrimental to health, particularly in the long term (although there is no evidence to suggest that artificial light has any long-term health effects).

  48. Even if we do burn the candle at both ends, the right amount of light could combat the effects of a poor night’s sleep. A 2013 study from the Netherlands found that people who were exposed to more daylight during the week reported feeling more energetic and less tired, regardless of how long they slept the night before.

  49. A sunny day is equivalent to 100,000 lux (the measure of brightness), while indoor lighting only provides around 300 lux. The average person needs exposure to 1,000 lux to enjoy the full benefits light offers. Without enough light, our body clocks can’t function correctly, which in turn can affect our sleep. Not getting enough sleep affects our alertness, health and general productivity.

  50. Making efforts to provide a pleasant working environment for employees should be at the top of every business leader’s priorities. It can affect turnover rates, productivity and, ultimately, profits. Listed below are some of the factors that should be considered when planning your office design for maximum results.

  51. When weighing up your options, remember that one of the best things about shared offices, hot-desking and even working in an internet cafe if you don’t need to make any long-term commitments. If it’s not for you, you can simply move on. For agile and open-minded start-ups, workspace options have never been better.

  52. Two such cloud-based tools are Slack and Trello. Slack is a chat platform that allows teams to keep in touch, while Trello is a digital app that helps organize workflow into a convenient digital Post-it Note-style system. Tools like these can easily be utilized to create virtual spaces that replicate activities that might have traditionally taken place in an office.

  53. Given the workspace-related cost challenges that start-ups and small businesses are facing at the moment, particularly in the Greater Dublin area, businesses can benefit from thinking outside the box about their requirements. Meeting up just one or two days a week is a solution that works well for many teams in terms of productivity and work-life balance, especially when the cloud already facilitates easy and collaborative remote working.

  54. It gives us a great sense of pride to be able to bring our potential clients to Dogpatch and show them the vibrant, energetic and innovative home that we have, which very much matches our company’s ethos, says Hesus Inoma, founder and CEO of insurtech start-up WeSavvy, one of the companies based at Dogpatch Labs. This, coupled with the opportunity to work with fast-paced businesses and other hardworking members, makes it a perfect home for us and our company.

  55. Firms must consider what their chosen office says about them if they plan to host meetings with clients, or events that reflect their brand. For instance, a graphic design start-up won’t want to present its work to clients in a windowless room with white walls, and a company that runs regular conferences will likely require access to a relevant on-site space or at least somewhere close by.

  56. Working alongside a diverse group of driven individuals allows you to understand different perspectives. It fosters new ways of thinking, Walsh says. Co-working gives you more than a place to work and some people to share a space with, it allows you to network on a daily basis, and provides you with a community support system that wants you to succeed.

  57. You can’t just drop a team from a large corporate office into a quirky co-working space and expect them to start sitting on beanbags and sharing playlists. Work culture is often built alongside or before a business actually selects a workspace. So an awareness of which values matters most to your company, an understanding of the culture of your chosen workspace and a certain level of open-mindedness are all really important.

  58. A shared office space can also improve workers’ well-being by encouraging a better work-life balance, making employees feel less isolated at work. This has multiple benefits for a business: according to the Economic and Social Research Institute, work-related illness causes 790,000 productive days to be lost in Ireland annually, while around 18% of those absences are directly related to stress, anxiety, and depression.

  59. The rising cost of office space isn’t the only motivator for seeking out an alternative, dynamic workspace option, though. Being surrounded by like-minded businesses at a co-working or shared office space also means you have a network of possible clients and collaborators at your disposal. Interacting with firms from other industries can help ensure that water-cooler chats become productive, useful moments that add value to both staff and companies.

  60. When planning a new workspace, Office Principles is often guided by the reality that, in most offices, the number of employees present at any given time is only between 60% and 75%. “We use those statistics to exploit the fact that a business can generally use less space overall and reduce the cost of occupancy,” says Jenkins, adding that office rental costs have skyrocketed in recent years.

  61. Twenty years ago, people dreamt of having their very own corner office, says workspace expert Chris Jenkins of Office Principles, an office design company that works with clients across Europe. Today’s entrepreneurs no longer aspire to this: they mostly just want a chair, a surface and somewhere to power up their phone and laptop. With that comes the freedom to feel that, whether they’re in their home office at 11 pm or using the local Starbucks as their office base, it all counts as bona fide work time.

  62. Add to this an acceptance that you really don’t need the sole use of your very own business premises to be effective, and the options available to today’s SMEs are as varied as they are exciting, not to mention affordable, too. Whether you choose to work from home, a local co-working hub or a luxurious shared office space, there are a growing number of alternatives to the cubicles of years gone by.

  63. This appeals to landlords and developers because the risk of development is reduced. However, it also should be attractive to city fathers because refurbishment often rescues a building from obsolescence and demolition, and should also very appealing to occupiers because of the significant beneficial environmental and financial implications.

  64. Companies are looking for office space that differentiates; that sets their business apart from their peer group and attracts and retains staff. Much of this relates to a dynamic fit out of the office space by the occupier, but it also is linked to acquiring the most appropriate office in the right location.

  65. Workers’ biggest frustration is the lack of a quiet space for working, and the research seems to back this statement up by suggesting that there is a negative productivity gap for businesses based in open plan offices. Enough of the statistics. To me, it is clear that needs of the occupier, and as a result, the appropriate use of offices is changing, and quickly.

  66. The most important issue for workers in the UK is the length of their commute to work, perhaps not surprising as London data is included in the research. However, Glasgow has the highest percentage of workers stating that access to good public transport connections as being “important” (91 percent); 73 percent want good food facilities; 47 percent think a good environmental performance of a building is important; and 74 percent demand excellent quality wireless technology.

  67. For generation Z or the millennials (and if you have to Google what this means, it probably tells you something). The workplace is a social environment; much more than just a place to work during the day. If I told you that more than 83 percent of generation Z leave their first job within three years, the quicker employers realize that the quality of their working environment will make a huge difference to attracting and retaining staff, the better.

  68. The younger you are, the more likely you are to want to work in the city center. Unless you work in commercial property, it probably won’t have crossed your mind that in both Glasgow and Edinburgh, we have been accustomed to watching shiny glass and metal structures rising from the ground to satisfy the occupational needs of businesses.

  69. This may seem a dry subject, but I suspect most people reading this article will be doing so at their desk or traveling to or from their workplace. Everyone has a view on their working environment – good or bad. So perhaps it’s worth giving this some further thought?

  70. One of the best ways of determining whether an office is ideal for you is to make sure you tour as many office properties that match your requirements as possible. Having a good Tenant Rep Broker to “hold your hand” throughout the process will help you make an informed decision and find the ideal office that matches your financial, operational and strategic requirements.

  71. Office space is calculated on a cost per square foot basis, so to enable you to determine how many square feet you need to use the Office Space Calculator from Help Moving Office to avoid securing an office that is either too big or too small – both of which can be budget breakers!

  72. Cost is said to be the main determining factor when choosing office space. Now, more than ever before, businesses are being forced to minimize expenditure and maximize efficiency, and with real estate being one of the highest expenditure for a company, businesses need to be scrupulous when it comes to office rental costs.

  73. Whether you’re looking for a new home for your business or looking to lease your first office for your start-up business, there are many factors to consider that will help you land the ideal office. Space will need to suit your company’s working culture, company brand as well as meet your monetary and timeframe constraints.

  74. When you are looking to change or adapt to your work environment, don’t set limitations on how to get there. Be open about where you would like to end up and set yourself a plan to get there. Start by having a conversation with your manager about the education and training that you would like to have: open the door for communication about your future right from the start.

  75. If you see a coworker struggling with a project or have advice for them, try offering support by offering assistance or thanking them for working so hard. Don’t approach the situation with immediate changes or advice on how something should be done, others will generally get defensive doing this and you want to build a good working relationship.

  76. When you are looking to change or adapt to your work environment, don’t set limitations on how to get there. Be open about where you would like to end up and set yourself a plan to get there. Start by having a conversation with your manager about the education and training that you would like to have: open the door for communication about your future right from the start.

  77. Your work environment, whether you are currently employed or looking for a job, isn’t always going to be a perfect fit from the start but there should be some immediate glimpse that it will work for you eventually. A culture that is molded around a company vision may not be a home run for you right away but don’t be shy if there are some areas that fit your idea of culture: as long as the company mostly fits the culture that you are expecting, give it a try!

  78. 70% of workers in America are disengaged in the office. Are you one of them? It’s hard to feel productive, involved in the company, and motivated when you aren’t regularly engaging with the culture of your office. Identifying your ideal work environment is a great start to changing that feeling.

  79. Doing so makes them feel more valued and increases their enthusiasm, which in turn drives them to put in more effort at their job. It’s not only the employees; managers should be equally open to feedback as well. Allowing your subordinates to suggest changes and then implementing those changes is a great way to create trust and gain loyalty. Any business that has this aspect nailed down is always going to succeed.

  80. The importance of open and effective communication in a workplace has been touted countless times and for good reason. Employees who interact with each other regularly soon build a rapport and work more effectively as a group. And the flow of communication should exist across all strata of positions in a company, from the upper management to the junior-most employees, everyone should be asked to contribute to decision-making and ideating.

  81. Employees who can dictate their own work schedule will invariably be more satisfied at work due to the autonomy they’ve been granted. No one likes being forced to adhere to schedules and policies that exist just for the sake of it and doing so robs them of any pleasure they may derive from their jobs.

  82. Individuals are more creative and generate better ideas when left alone, divergent thinking, whereas groups are better at selecting the most promising ideas out of the pool, convergent thinking. To this effect, she suggests that brainstorming sessions follow a strategy where individuals are asked to write down their ideas and then share them with the group for feedback. Conducting multiple rounds of such sessions allows employees to build upon others’ ideas while deciding which ones are worth pursuing.

  83. While brainstorming sessions are believed the best way to unleash the potential of the company’s employees as a collective group, research has proven that they don’t work. A study by Yale University showed that brainstorming sessions end up reducing the creativity of individuals participating in them while those who are asked to ideate on their own often come with better and more effective solutions to the presented problems.

  84. Not only that, such offices also result in more sick leaves being taken by employees as compared to their closed-space counterparts. So, perhaps it’s time to eschew open-plan offices in favor of ones that accord employees private spaces to do their work without distractions.

  85. Open-plan offices seem to be all the rage these days. A trend initially sparked by startups, it has since been adopted by countless enterprises in a bid to reinvigorate their employees through what they think will improve communication and bolster the flow of ideas. But several studies have shown that open-plan offices yield countless negative results and hardly any positive ones.

  86. The goal of environmental exploration is to help you understand what you are ultimately looking to achieve from your work. Gaining an awareness of different occupations and work environments helps you identify best fits with your life themes — that is, the combination of values, interests, and abilities specific to you. Research shows that individuals who exhibit awareness of self and environment make more compatible career choices, perform better and longer in their employment positions, and derive more satisfaction from work.

  87. Not only does collaboration make employees happier, but around half of millennials say workplace friendships motivate them, and 30 percent say these friendships make them more productive. Of course, there are tasks that only require one person. But when possible, encourage employees to team up and work together for the sake of their satisfaction and productivity. You’ll spark innovative ideas across the workplace generational divide.

  88. Millennials want someone to look up to. They want someone they can trust with more than just evaluations and questions about office policy. As they begin integrating into the workforce, they want people who will help them through the rough patches of starting a new company and guide them along the way. They want mentors.

  89. Leaders as People
    Millennials may have a different view of how they’d like to work, but they still respect the more experienced generations in the workforce. They want to work for people who will inspire them to do great work. They’re not inspired by things like money or status, but rather by core competencies and personality traits.

  90. No place is perfect, but if you begin with the end in mind and think about walking in your employee’s shoes, you will be well on your way to creating a positive, productive workplace where people are happy to be part of your vision, contributing to your end goal.

  91. Treat each employee as a person. Remember to recognize people not only for what they do but who they are. Understand that each employee yearns for respect in both their work and their personal lives. Get to know your employees. Celebrate personal and professional milestones. Support employees when they face personal challenges. A little bit of caring goes a long way toward employee and brand loyalty.

  92. Have a little fun. Being happy at work includes finding your passion, working toward it and having fun along the way. It’s about the journey as much as the destination. It also includes sharing your passion with others. No one said that you cannot have a little fun and laughter at work. People spend a lot of time working today. Making the workplace somewhere that employees actually enjoy will ensure people are working to support and deliver your mission.

  93. While this is often more difficult for small business owners, think creatively. According to the Glassdoor survey, at Facebook, employees are frowned upon for missing important family affairs. Be flexible. Perhaps employees can work from home or shift hours to spend time with the children each day or go to school.

  94. Make sure every employee understands he or she contributes to the mission and vision. This is about connecting the dots for each employee, not only when they join the company, but consistently while working for your company. Your mission should be your rallying cry and help each employee know what they are contributing to daily. It provides your measurement tool as well.

  95. Many of the companies at the top of these lists also may make these same employees feel miserable. Why would employees rate their companies as the ideal place to work when, in fact, these same employees feel exhausted, overwhelmed and maybe even become ill due to the long hours and lack of rest and recovery time? According to the qualitative research from the New York Times, today’s employees are prisoners of low expectations. And they are worn-out.

  96. The system of positive sanctions is necessary for any arrangement of social order and workplaces are no exception to this rule. Rewards are crucial for inducing encouragement of a certain form of behavior. Psychologists call this ‘Positive Reinforcement’ under operant conditioning according to which rewarding certain workers for their efforts lead to a more motivated and hardworking workforce. The reward in question does not have to necessarily be monetary. This could be a simple gesture of appreciation as well.

  97. For those businesses that are adamant to thrive, it is very important to define an agenda for themselves- that the company stands for and what your long-term goals are. A clearly defined vision is very important for an ideal working environment since it almost acts as a compass. It is also of significant importance to determine the role of each employee as well as their individual contribution to the big picture.

  98. It is important to talk about transparency in leadership again. This is because it is really important to make sure that the leaders are accessible, accommodating and carry out an open conversation with their staff. The staff must know about the company vision and the goals for the upcoming months (at least). There must be no back talking and everyone must be able to deliver his ideas with freedom. Politics must be reduced to a minimum and equality among the workers must be practiced.

  99. Soft skills, on the other hand, revolve around interpersonal skills that affect the morale of the organization. Organizations that focus on development have clear aims of training new employees and re-training old ones to enhance the productivity of the whole unit in the long run.

  100. The two types of skills: hard and soft skills have a direct impact on the productivity of the place. With the changing trends and working style, it is important to have information and updates about it (hard skills). For instance, social media services revolve around social media marketing and the trends keep on changing every now and then. What professionals there do is that they train their subordinates accordingly so that their firm can excel.

  101. Constructive feedback from managers can also be of great assistance for the worker and can boost their morale and self-esteem. Thus, another thing that the work environment must have is the support for innovation and creativity. In order to promote out of the box thinking, it is important to trust your employees. Research claims that 90% of workers value honesty, trust and fairness in workplace relationships and these can be fostered through proactively maintaining healthy interpersonal relationships between managers and workers as well as regular, consistent communication. By boosting mutual feelings of trust, a culture of creativity can be effectively fostered.

  102. In a time of rapid advancements and competitive changes, it is indispensable for organizations to keep up, retain flexibility and train workers accordingly. Technology is evolving with unparalleled haste in today’s day and age which means that most methods used a decade ago could now be obsolete. This proves that adaptability is crucial for businesses in this era.

  103. A business cannot succeed without creativity culture. Workers value an office environment where they can get a chance to learn, thrive and compete. Only then, will it be possible to cross the limiting barriers, show their creative skills and reach the next level in their career?

  104. You need to make sure that the workers are engaged in their work as an engaged employee is more useful to the business industry. A Dale Carnegie Training’s Infographic on engaged employees says that companies which have engaged employees outperform those with disengaged ones by 202%. It’s a huge number, isn’t it?

  105. Grant Butrum, a dedicated employee, once said, “I could go on and on about my work environment but at the end of the day, the most important thing that I notice is that people work hard and enjoy their job when they work for a company that genuinely cares for their employees. You can’t ask for a better environment!”

  106. For a business to succeed in the global market, it is necessary that the working team maintains harmony in the workplace. While working, the foremost thing that affects the productivity of the personnel and the efficiency of the workflow is the office environment. The workers have to spend more than one-quarter of their day devoted to working in order to increase the sales and return on investment of the business. This calls for an ideal working environment.

  107. These are some of the things which you can include in your answer so that the recruiter understands very well that you are someone who knows exactly what you want. Those who have no real experience in the business world will answer this question by only referring to the physical environment in the office. This question includes a lot of different points which you ought to keep in mind. If your answers during an interview appear incomplete and very off point then it is obvious that the company will not hire you onboard. Companies long to hire those people who are able to look at things in an objective and holistic manner.

  108. An ideal working environment is one where there are no distractions. It is an environment which is conducive to work. In addition to this, there should be proper food and drink provided so that when working hard the employee’s health does not suffer in any way. Having a balanced diet is something which is very important.

  109. When you are asked this question be sure to state that an ideal working environment is one where all the employees are given praise when it is due to them. No one constantly tries to put them down just for a tiny mistake which they might have made when getting a job done. After all, we are just human beings and not gods. Making mistakes is something which is natural.

  110. An interview is where you have to really show all that you have to offer. If you are unable to put your best foot forward then a good job opportunity will slip through your hands. On being asked this question state that an ideal working environment is one where people are ever willing to help you if you are in trouble. They assist you whenever you are feeling low or down. It is the job of company’s boss to ensure his company runs as a well-oiled machine.

  111. An ideal working environment is most obviously one where all the employees work unanimously as a team. No one is trying to get ahead, by putting the next one down. It is rather unfortunate that the business world is rather famous for being cutthroat. State in your answer that though you are someone who would love to get ahead and be successful in your career, you would never consider even for a moment doing something like this. You would consider a working environment as ideal if everyone was secure in their own position and work collectively for the good of the company.

  112. The moment employees understand that promotions are being given based on favoritism then that is the thing which is going to make them feel betrayed. When you are asked this question by the recruiter state that you believe an ideal working environment is one where merit is rewarded at all times. There is no discriminated on the basis of caste creed or sex. Saying this will really show you to be someone who is very clear-sighted and morally righteous.

  113. Once the employees are aware of the fact that such corruption is taking place behind closed doors it is unlikely that they will be feeling like giving their best towards the company. State in your answer that you are someone who values honesty and integrity above everything else and it is for this reason that you consider an ideal working environment one where there is no corruption of any kind.

  114. Once asked this question you should state that you believe an ideal working environment is one where the seniors are very helpful and supportive to the newcomers. No employee whether young or old should be made to feel inferior in any manner. State that you are someone who would be always willing to help a fresher if you were in a position of advantage.

  115. Workplace violence is something which is more common than you might think. There are many employees especially women who often feel very threatened and worried when they walk into their place of work. Due to the fear playing on these victims minds they are unable to bring out the best in themselves. When the person taking your interviewer asks you this question, state that an ideal working environment is one where no one has any kind of fear playing on their mind. A working environment should be well guarded by armed securities, who know exactly what to do when trouble of any kind breaks out.

  116. People who are brimming with new ideas and dreams never have time for such pettiness. So when the recruiter of the companies asks you such a question in the course of your interview, do state that an ideal working environment is one where people are constantly so preoccupied with their work and projects at hand that they never sit around ideally gossiping about people who they don’t like. State boldly that you are someone who never indulges in things like this because you find it very low.

  117. There are many companies which try and curb the creativity of the employees by telling them to always go by the books, yet a company which has an ideal working environment will not instill such fear in the minds of those who are working under them. Employees should be taught that failure is something which is a part of life which cannot be run away from.

  118. If a working atmosphere is very repulsive and negative then employees are never going to feel like doing the best they can do. All employees should be adequately rewarded when they happen to do a task well. If the employees are never given bonuses or incentives then they will see no need to push the boundaries and excel at every task which is handed to them.

  119. Good quality work is never produced in an atmosphere or environment of noise or chaos. All individuals need to function in a calm and stress-free manner in order to bring out the best in themselves. So the candidate must answer by saying that an ideal working environment is one which is quiet and peaceful so that the employees are really able to get in touch with their inner thoughts as well as feelings.

  120. It is no secret that we are living in a technological age and if companies do not keep up with the changing times it is unlikely that they will be able to compete properly with other leading businesses. So in the course of your answer, do mention that an ideal working environment is one where there is proper infrastructure available for the employees so that they are able to do all their work in a proper and time efficient manner.

  121. No individual likes working in an environment which is dirty and unhygienic. Keeping the office clean is not merely the responsibility of the cleaning staff, but it is the responsibility of everyone working in the company as well. Saying this will really leave a good impression in the mind of the person taking your interview.

  122. When employees fulfill their various needs and goals in life, such as those of family, friends, spiritual pursuits, self-growth, etc, they can then feel more confident about themselves and perform their best at work. Apart from that, employees that are exposed to more experiences in life outside of work can use what they’ve gained and apply that to their work.

  123. Such two-way open communication will eventually break down the hurdles present in hierarchical or bureaucratic organizations. At the end of it all, it promotes trust in day-to-day interactions between co-workers, as well as between subordinates and supervisors.

  124. It is thus essential for staff to discuss the organization’s philosophy, mission and values, from time to time during retreats, meetings, etc to ensure that everyone knows what they’re working for other than their paychecks. Having open discussions get people involved and allow them to share their views and perspectives on how to achieve company goals. After which, the management side will give their own perspectives on how to fulfill the organization’s mission.

  125. Due to the job variety available in the marketplace, this article is probably a little generic and may not apply to all types of jobs. However, these qualities are much valued by employees and employers in most jobs. I would say that they are pretty universal in that sense, except in a few exceptional cases.

  126. If you’re looking for a new job, then I would say that assessing the work environment is a crucial step you shouldn’t skip. After all, this is the place you might be working at in future and you wouldn’t want to be dragging yourself to work every single morning!

  127. Aside from the job scope itself, one factor that significantly influences how employees feel about work is the environment. By work environment, I mean everything that forms part of employees’ involvement with the work itself, such as the relationship with co-workers and supervisors, organizational culture, room for personal development, etc.

  128. When employees choose a space that makes them comfortable, give them the freedom to customize their area, as everyone works differently, said Josh Turner, CEO of user feedback platform UsersThink. He suggested getting rid of the “same-issued everything” and giving everyone a budget to customize their own setup.

  129. Make it easy for workers to purchase things like exercise balls and plants on the company dime, said AJ Shankar, CEO, and founder of litigation software company Everlaw. We also trust our employees to manage their own time. They’re free to take breaks to play games or just recharge as necessary.

  130. Blue-enriched light bulbs may reduce fatigue and increase happiness and work performance, according to the article. Use this type of lighting in brainstorming rooms. In a meeting or break rooms, use warmer tones to promote calmness and relaxation. In conference rooms, use middle tones that welcome workers while keeping them alert.

  131. An article by MBA@UNC, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Kenan-Flagler’s online MBA program, states that exposure to natural light improves mood and energy, greatly impacting focus and productivity. But according to a survey by Pots Planters and More, nearly half of office workers said there is little to no natural light in their office.

  132. If you have gone on even one job interview it is likely you have heard questions that ask you to describe your strengths and weaknesses and where you expect to see yourself in five years’ time. Another common question is “What would be your ideal working environment?” It is one of the ways in which interviewers can determine how compatible you are for the position and company. Compatibility is critically important; an employee who fits in is likely to be happier and more productive and so will everyone else.

  133. No one can work effectively in a sea of noise or interruptions. When planning your office area, ensure that it affords a degree of privacy from surrounding activities. While headphones may serve to isolate certain sounds, no one wants to be forced to wear headphones all the time. Portable screens can be used to shield the work area from nearby activities. Alternatively, divider walls that double as bookcases will not only divide the area but provide superior storage solutions.

  134. The most effective lighting brings out the fullest quality of the colors illuminated. If lighting levels are too low, there can be negative psychological effects, including depression. For human comfort, a yellow-cast illumination is best. It is the color of brightness, and midway through the color progression from cool to warm.

  135. If no daylight is available, a combination of general and task lighting will be required. A high-quality task light will be essential for late nights or cloudy days. If your home office is in a basement or a room without windows, check out daylight-replicating light sources that will provide energy-efficient, full-spectrum lighting. Many ergonomic task-lighting fixtures have dimmer switches so you can control the amount of light.

  136. If your space has a window, it will enhance the lighting. Daylight is the most evenly balanced source of white light available, in that sunlight has an approximately equal proportion of each color of the spectrum. This light, however, never has a constant color and its beauty comes from the way it is reflected and from the way it is refracted by the earth (as in differing times of day).

  137. If you want to know if your candidates have this trait, ask a simple question in the interview such as, “Why should we hire you?”. This way they have to sell themselves in a persuasive manner while listing qualities, traits, and reasons—a perfect, practical test of their customer service skills.

  138. The HR team, or the person conducting the interview, should also know how to decipher a resumé in order to find the right match. When reading through your prospective employee’s resumé, look for keywords in their testimonials such as “works well with others” and “maintains a positive attitude”.

  139. Discipline in the office depends upon him. The rules and principles of the management should be followed by the subordinates. He must have the ability to speak. New methods cannot be accepted unless the full explanation is followed. He has to convince others about the factual findings.

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  141. What type of world do you want? Personally, I want my apple to be affordable and free of hazardous toxins; I want access to clean drinking water and I want communities in Brazil to have it too; I want city kids to know that ketchup is made from tomatoes that grow in dirt and country kids to know that good public transportation can mean an incredible amount of freedom.

  142. A confident employee is also more willing to take risks or go for challenges that an uncertain counterpart would shy from. Great outcomes come from people who have faith in their abilities and talents. If the candidate is someone who you would want to interact directly with a client(s), the latter two will be impressed by the person’s self-assuredness and therefore feel like continuing the business relationship with him/her and your company.

  143. Another common question is “What would be your ideal working environment?” It is one of the ways in which interviewers can determine how compatible you are for the position and company. Compatibility is critically important; an employee who fits in is likely to be happier and more productive and so will everyone else.

  144. There’s a good chance that you’re in the right place. But if it doesn’t have any signs of a positive workplace you may want to reconsider whether or not your current workplace is the right place for you. Ask yourself whether it’s time to start looking for another job –one that has a work environment that will leave you feeling satisfied, happy, and fulfilled.

  145. The best companies understand the importance of providing the workers with training, updating outdated systems, and providing tools that will help workers to use their time better and to stay current and competitive in today’s world. This can boost worker satisfaction, productivity, and create a better workplace environment.

  146. A positive work environment may be more relevant than many people think. A positive work environment is important –for worker’s satisfaction, health, and even productivity. Studies show that employees are 38 percent more likely to perform above average when they are highly engaged –and creating a positive work environment –can help workers to perform at their best.

  147. Create an environment where team members truly feel connected. Ideally, this starts with an intensive hiring process and a culture that states that you only work with people who are the best at what they do. Those individuals who make the cut will feel like they’ve made it into your company’s inner circle.

  148. We’ve all heard it before: “People don’t leave companies, they leave managers.” Managers should prepare their team members for success by establishing clear objectives for each employee and by connecting these goals directly to the goals of the team/department and the company as a whole.

  149. If your employees don’t feel like they are growing in a meaningful way, both personally and professionally. They won’t be around for long. However, if they’re immersed in a growth culture and feel like the company and their managers want them to get better for their own sake (not just the company’s), real magic will occur.

  150. Space that wows: Work-life balance is a thing of the past. To truly flourish today, companies need a workspace that allows for work-life integration by creating a seamless experience for employees both in and out of the office. Your workspace ought to be a place where employees actually want to spend their time and should be set up to encourage behaviors that support your company’s values. Do you value open communication in your office? Then try tearing down the walls to create an open environment.

  151. Times are changing fast. What people yearned for, expected and cared about 10 years ago is so different than today. Employee engagement, culture, hiring, retention and performance alignment used to solely be HR functions. Today, creating a culture where employees are driven to succeed involves every aspect of your company.

  152. No place is perfect, but if you begin with the end in mind and think about walking in your employees’ shoes, you will be well on your way to creating a positive, productive workplace where people are happy to be part of your vision, contributing to your end goal.

  153. Why would employees rate their companies as the ideal place to work when, in fact, these same employees feel exhausted, overwhelmed and maybe even become ill due to the long hours and lack of rest and recovery time? According to the qualitative research from the New York Times, today’s employees are prisoners of low expectations. And they are worn-out.

  154. Eighty-seven percent of high school students believe that a worker should be promoted every two to three years, as long as they are performing at a high level. Conversely, only 73 percent of current workers feel the same way. While this is often more difficult for small business owners, think creatively.

  155. Maybe you are even alone, sitting on the beach with your laptop, working in between quick dips in the ocean. Most people fantasize about the perfect job, the best place to work, following their passions and harnessing collaborative energies to do something meaningful. Or you may just dream of winning the lottery every day.

  156. When you think about the perfect workplace, what comes to mind? For some, it may be fellow employees playing volleyball on a sand court just outside the office doors like Google. Or perhaps you think of employees sitting around on bean bags brainstorming ideas and finding solutions to problems in an open office environment.

  157. Recently a friend passed me an article that listed characteristics that make a great place to work. Instead of reading it I decided to make my own list. I’ve done this in the past, such as with this post: The 12 keys to being excellent at anything. It’s a fun exercise.

  158. If you’re looking for a new job, then I would say that assessing the work environment is a crucial step you shouldn’t skip. After all, this is the place you might be working at in future and you wouldn’t want to be dragging yourself to work every single morning!

  159. For some people, the ideal work environment has set hours, with people arriving at 9 a.m. and leaving at 5 p.m. For those with family responsibilities, this may represent the ideal environment. If this is what you want to convey, you could say, “I think it’s important to be productive by 9 a.m., so I can feel good about leaving at 5 p.m.”

  160. Of the most typical interview questions, this one is designed to illuminate the environment in which you like to work. Everyone has a preferred way of working. Some people like the formality of processes. If that’s you, say, “I like when processes are in place, so I know what steps to take.”

  161. If you have a number of years under your belt and believe you already know how to manage all or part of a business successfully, then a small company might be the place for you. In your answer, you might say, “I’ve had great training from large companies and want to import those practices into a small company, so I can have a greater impact.

  162. Your preference may also depend on where you are in your career. If you’re just starting out, a large company may be the place to learn processes. If that’s how you feel, say, “I want to own my own company someday and want to learn the best methodologies for running a business.”

  163. When employees fulfill their various needs and goals in life, such as those of family, friends, spiritual pursuits, self-growth, etc, they can then feel more confident about themselves and perform their best at work. Apart from that, employees that are exposed to more experiences in life outside of work can use what they’ve gained and apply that to their work.

  164. My ideal working environment is one where there’s a good sense of team spirit. A strong work ethic is obviously important but the human side is also important. I enjoy working with people who have a decent sense of humor and who, while they might take their work very seriously, don’t necessarily take themselves overly seriously! I like people who are down to earth but who have a dynamic and progressive approach to their work. I really enjoy working as part of a highly committed and professional team.

  165. An ideal work environment is one that is centered around working as a team and that allows everyone’s talents to flourish. There must be a desire to cultivate each of your employees’ skills. Some employees work best in an environment that is empowering and positive, no matter what the work is that I’m doing.

  166. I once had a boss who read every email that anyone sent to the entire company. I would send a coworker a private email asking about the details of a project, and my boss would respond with input. Everyone felt like we were being watched, and morale suffered.

  167. You know those parents that hover over their children constantly and never give them time to breathe? You don’t want to be the workplace equivalent of that. Your instinct may be to micromanage and make sure everything is running exactly as you want it, but that will only create a negative environment for everyone else in the office.

  168. Staff meetings are a great time to acknowledge the work your employees do. You can take two minutes out of your meetings to bring attention to your employees’ accomplishments. Other rewards that are cost-efficient can involve letting your hard working employees either leave work early or come in later or present them with a prize such as a gift card.

  169. It’s a good idea to reward an employee who does a good job. Recognizing the individuals who work hard will encourage them to keep up the great work. It also instills the notion that hard work is acknowledged and appreciated, and encourages other employees to strive for the same recognition.

  170. Set up specific times during the day to open your office door and allow employees to bounce ideas off of you. Encourage your team members, especially the more quiet employees, by asking for input directly that will help cement the fact that everyone’s input is important.

  171. While the image of female bosses excelling at nurturing may not exactly challenge stereotypes, a study published in the Harvard Business Review assessing the merits of 7,280 bosses found that at every level, more women were rated as better overall leaders than men. So hunt down a female-led team and join them. Quickly. And there is a new, progressive style of management emerging. As Mark Catchlove from office designers, Herman Miller explains: “It’s about creating what we call ‘social capital’ – a sense of community and belonging. Workers are much more loyal to people than they are to a company, so bosses shouldn’t be shut away in ivory towers.”

  172. There is growing evidence to suggest that women just edge it when it comes to being the best bosses. One 2011 survey found that women came across as calmer, more tolerant, more aware of personal problems and understanding of the need for a work-life balance. However, another 2010 study found that two-thirds of women prefer male bosses who they said were ‘more straight-talking, less likely to have a hidden agenda or get involved in office politics’.

  173. US pharmaceutical company Eli Lilly has treadmill workstations, in the UK, recruitment company Spencer Ogden has in-office bicycles and in Sweden, workers can attend events where they can dance for an hour, called Lunch Beat. Employers have reported a hike in productivity and Lunch Beat is now backed by workers’ unions. The ideal working lunch, then, is based on getting as far away from the desk-bound sandwich as possible. Get active, get out and forget about work.

  174. There’s no prescribed amount of time you should take for your break. What’s important is that you focus on something other than your inbox. Ideally, this option to refocus should be available in your workplace too and not just around midday. In his book, Brain Rules: 12 Principles For Surviving And Thriving At Work, Home And School, John Medina believes exercise creates a protein which nourishes the brain, so workers need to find ways of building activity into their day – from ‘walking meetings’ in a treadmill conference room to sitting on exercise balls to read emails.

  175. View your food as fuel (few carbs, plenty of protein and fresh produce) and avoid sugar, white rice, pasta, and potatoes as they’ll increase insulin levels and serotonin that will send you to sleep. A Bupa study in July showed less than a third of us take a full hour for lunch. But don’t be fooled into thinking you’re being productive. “The lunch break is an essential part of recharging the brain for the afternoon ahead,” says work psychologist Averil Leimon. “Ideally, you need to leave everything work-related behind.” That could be as simple as going to a gallery. Jane Asscher from advertising agency 23red gives every member of her staff a cultural allowance to spend on anything with “a creative element”. “It means people are getting exposed to new ideas they can bring to their work,” she explains. “Plus, they often go with colleagues so it helps people connect outside the office.”

  176. Like eating our five-a-day, drinking less and reading War And Peace, everyone knows we should take our lunch break but it’s also important you don’t wait too long to eat. Your body starts depleting its reserves if it doesn’t get fed after seven hours and that’s the reason why we should eat before 2 pm – the average Brit gets up at 7.12am so 1-2pm is when most of us get hungry after breakfast.

  177. The new model could work for our bosses too. “Employers don’t pay for unproductive time and employees get to work in a pattern that adjusts to their personal lives,” says Falconer. Just imagine, two hours’ work in the morning, an hour off then maybe two shorter stints. You’d pay your bills on time, get your groceries in the daylight and be super productive at work. It might even make that gym membership worthwhile, too.

  178. Working from home means that when we lose energy we can do something else such as to cook, walk the dog or even sleep until the energy returns. “People need to build in 25 minutes a day of uninterrupted thinking, away from technology and the expectation of immediate response,” says Parker. “Companies are creating tech-free zones while Nike and Google have nap rooms. Studies show that 20 minutes of sleep in the afternoon provides more rest than 20 minutes extra in bed in the morning. It’s when our bodies naturally slow down and need a top up.”

  179. After a couple of hours of intense work, energy levels drop and towards lunch, workers are achieving practically nothing. In fact, Falconer believes only three to four hours a day could be classed as highly productive. She believes the answer lies in four hours of screen time, interspersed with other, physical activities. “The traditional office setting doesn’t accommodate this because there are few ‘recharge activities’, which can be as simple as household chores or running errands,” explains Falconer.

  180. Some secondary schools are trying to combat this natural drowsiness by proposing lessons start at 11 am. If workers too can control their own timetable, lie-ins might no longer warrant a P45. “The most productive period is the beginning of the day,” reveals Erin Falconer of pickthebrain.com – the exact time depends on your body clock. “People are capable of creative tasks like writing and solving complex technical problems.”

  181. “The hours you are most productive are driven by your circadian (biological) rhythm, which determines whether you’re a morning or a night person, a lark or an owl,” explains Monica Parker, behaviorist and head of workplace consultancy at Morgan Lovell. “Larks have shorter circadian rhythms, meaning they sleep through their peak hour of sleepiness, and wake up at 7 am refreshed. Owls, with longer rhythms, usually wake up around their peak hour of sleepiness at 7 am, so still have high levels of melatonin, making them groggy,” she explains.

  182. Now we have electricity, we can effectively work anytime we want. But all-night working isn’t going to catch on (humans sleep when it’s dark because our bodies produce more melatonin – a hormone which causes drowsiness), but perhaps we should be able to tailor work hours to our personal needs?

  183. It might feel like we’ve been locked in the nine-to-five structure since the dawn of time, but the eight-hour day was once a revolutionary concept. First championed by socialist Robert Owen in 1817, who believed workers deserved eight hours each of work, recreation and rest, by the 20th century it was proved productivity increased the fewer hours we worked.

  184. To find the right fit, you have to first consider the cultural features you personally like or dislike. Below are some questions to help sketch a rough picture of your organization’s culture. If you are currently seeking a new job, think about these points and use your answers to screen potential employers.

  185. Finding a workplace with an organizational culture that fits your work style is a critical component of any job search. Unfortunately, the important piece of the puzzle is frequently overlooked by job seekers. This problem is partially due to the work involved in accurately identifying an organization’s culture.

  186. How are communications or conflicts handled in the workplace? What’s the frequency of interaction between leaders and employees? Knowing this information will help your client understand his or her own preferred work style and the level of transparency and collaboration that exists in information-sharing and decision-making.

  187. What workplace objects, pictures, historic artifacts, colours, or physical signs represent personally meaningful symbols for your client? These could be things such as photographs or artwork displayed in the work environment, corporate colours and logos – even the choice and placement of office furniture could have particular significance to a client.

  188. Culture in the workplace is more than clearly defined policies posted in the lunchroom. What matters is whether policies and best practices are consistently communicated, implemented, and aligned with organizational values and goals. In fact, high employee performance and retention, less absenteeism, and fewer conflicts and safety incidents are common traits of organizations with healthy, solid cultures.

  189. When you make it through to the interview, it’s not just about them finding the best candidate for you, it’s also about whether you’re the right fit for the job. Your Plum profile provides some questions to ask the interviewer so that you can determine whether you’ll be happier here because you are better matched to the role and company culture. Don’t just take the job to get out of your current role or you’ll end up hating this one too.

  190. As you apply for jobs, take some time to research the company culture to see if it matches what your Plum Profile indicates are environments you’d be a better match in. This information can be found on the company’s career page as many companies try to be upfront about who they are. Setting up information interviews to gain more insight into the company can also be valuable. Finally, you can check other sites like Glassdoor or google search employee reviews to see what employees report about that work environment. Be cautious, though, as you need to take into consideration that often times, it’s the disgruntled employees who are vocal and it may not be a direct reflection of what the majority of employees think.

  191. Plum provides you with a profile of your talents. These are your personal strengths in the workplace. The profile also provides you with a description of what types of work environment someone with your personality and work behaviors would be happiest in. Use this as a reference to guide you through the process.

  192. Perhaps a certain cleaning product may bother a certain employee? Perhaps your employees have their own advice on how your office can improve? Educating your employees is also important and getting them apart from the culture. For example, activities such as not washing hands, eating at your desk and being cluttered at your desk all increase the chance of catching and spreading germs, especially when most offices have shared ducted air-conditioning units. You can even motivate your employees to stay clean and organized by holding a clean desk contest!

  193. Walk around your office and identify which areas and aspects of your office could be improved in terms of presentation and cleanliness. You should also pay special attention to high traffic areas such as hallways and entrances. Once you have analyzed your office you can get a better idea of what may be required décor or cleaning needs.

  194. A probability is that we may be overlooking certain glaring things. We always recommend taking a step back and looking at your office space from a customer’s perspective. This allows you to be critical of the image portrayed and then being able to identify and rectify things you may not have been aware of.

  195. This may seem trivial, but this detail can have a big impact on your daily happiness at work. If you absolutely hate wearing a uniform, you need to take this into account when weighing up new job opportunities. You may also find that you’re never comfortable in a suit or very formal business-wear; make sure to observe or ask if this is the ‘norm’ in potential workplaces.

  196. Do you like working independently, being responsible for only for own work? Or are you comfortable managing others? Take a minute to reflect on your past work experiences: were you happiest when you had a tightly scheduled work day, or when you had more freedom to schedule your own day? Did you prefer it when your supervisors were highly involved in your daily work, or when they were less involved? Try to isolate the elements that made these previous positions positive or negative experiences for you.

  197. It does not mean ‘what company do you want to work for?’ but, literally, where? In the city, suburbs, or maybe the remote wilderness? Do you want to be sitting in an office building, working inside but staying active, or doing physical labor outdoors? What length of commute would make you happiest: a short walk to work, or a long, peaceful drive?

  198. Once you’ve decided on your space, fill it with what inspires you and makes you productive, but don’t over-clutter so much that you can’t find a spot on the desk or are distracted by your whimsy additions. Of course, family photos, quotes, and tranquil images can be great for a motivating work environment. Paint colors like red and orange have even been found to be psychologically distracting. Invest in beneficial equipment, like ergonomic keyboards and mice and back-friendly chairs. You may even prefer a standing desk.

  199. If you have complete autonomy over where you work, you better pick a place that you enjoy and makes you thrive. Don’t settle for anything less! Whether it’s in a small, upstairs office with big windows, or a quiet, loft-like nook, make sure your workspace puts you in a good mood. If that means you have to make adjustments to your space, by all means, go for it!

  200. Lighting plays a vital role in workers’ performance and attitude. An article by MBA@UNC, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Kenan-Flagler’s online MBA program, states that exposure to natural light improves mood and energy, greatly impacting focus and productivity. But according to a survey by Pots Planters and More, nearly half of office workers said there is little to no natural light in their office.

  201. Smart businesses know that a good work environment starts with hiring the right people. Make sure employees are professional and team players. The same idea translates to those who are already in the office. When employees work with toxic workers, they are more likely to become toxic themselves.

  202. Look & Listen to what’s occurring in the work environment. Be open to discussing individually with team members, and within teams, everyone’s accountability to the new work environment. Be open to making adjustments and course corrections where it makes sense so the work environment continues to get even closer to “ideal.”

  203. Apply the Clean Slate Strategy. This provides everyone a fresh start. When implementing this strategy everyone agrees to let go of the past, give all co-workers and company leaders the benefit of the doubt, and focuses only on ensuring accountability to the agreed future.

  204. Determine the potential roadblocks to implementing these newly identified characteristics. Get them out on the table, address them, and agree to focus on the newly identified desired future workplace characteristics. I know you’re fearful and skeptical this can work, and it will when you approach it the correct way.

  205. Identify the behaviors, communication styles and other characteristics people working in the environment would need to consistently display. Both company leaders and all employees should participate in this process. It can be done with everyone together or can be done separately, and the two lists merged.

  206. Just because you’re the owner of a company, the CEO or the manager, that doesn’t give you the right to abuse your employees. A true leader shouldn’t be afraid to reveal the person behind the title. Employees want leaders they can rely on; they want to relate to them, gain their respect, and not be afraid to make mistakes.

  207. As a company leader, you should never stop communicating objectives, goals and visions. It’s really important for an entrepreneur to have active conversations with employees. Don’t hold back, and prove to your employees that you’re an open-minded person. Talk about everything, share secrets, and find a way to make employees feel like part of a family.

  208. Growing up as the inaugural digital native generation, this age group is inspired by connectivity. From childhood, this generation has been taught to work on teams (football team, school…). Its members tend to work best in groups, and team-building exercises should encourage this. While there are many ways to approach team building with a millennial workforce, a lot of companies are using interactive virtual games to inspire creativity and collaboration.

  209. Millennials have a different way of working and thinking, but they highly respect the experience of older generations. They want to work for people who will inspire them to do a great job. Millennials define leaders as personable, visionary, inspirational, and strategic thinkers. They don’t want the distant leaders of other times. Millennials want a leader who they can talk to. They want to identify some characteristics in their leaders that make them feel great about working with them.

  210. Feedback is a two-way communication system, and Millennials require it more often than before. Anual supervisions are not enough anymore. Millennials want at least quarterly reviews and regular feedback. They don’t only want to know how they are doing, but also want the capability of telling the manager how she or he is doing.

  211. Research has shown that the top-down management style is ineffective for the majority of millennials. Most have been raised working in teams through sports, or group projects. Encouraging collaboration in the workplace is crucial, and blatant hierarchy here can pose a big roadblock.

  212. You may not realize it, but where you choose to do business will profoundly affect how you operate. Putting yourself in the right environment to network, collaborate and be open to new opportunities is key. Take Saint-Henri, for example. HRVST’s offices are located in the Chateau St Ambroise, which is right on the Lachine Canal and smack dab in the heart of the neighborhood. We’re surrounded by so much positivity and creativity in this area, and even just in this building, that it adds to our daily business operations. There are cool, new companies sprouting up constantly, and we love being a part of the community. Not to mention the amount of top-notch bars and restaurants nearby isn’t too shabby, either.

  213. The human mind is a high-powered machine and like many machines, it needs the right fuel to keep working at maximum capacity. That’s why it’s so important to have the right food and drinks around so you can stay focused on completing your tasks. Need a quick snack? Boom! There’s a banana and a granola bar. Need a coffee to conquer that afternoon slump? Bam! Hot cup of joe coming right up. Need a beer because it’s 6:00pm and you’ve got five more hours of work left to finish up? Go for it; you deserve it. Make your place of work feel like home so that you’re not just counting down the minutes until your day is done. Your workspace should be a place of comfort where you don’t mind staying late because you probably will be.

  214. Despite how many times they’ve been warned otherwise, people are always going to judge a book by its cover. When it comes to your working environment, you want it to have an immediate “wow” factor. That starts with aesthetic; what kind of floors, walls, art, desks, chairs and overall atmosphere does the space have? Never underestimate how motivating the right look can be. Nobody wants to work in a dump or a stereotypical office with cubicles and painful fluorescent lights, there’s no inspiration in that. Furthermore, nothing productive will get done if the place is a pigsty. Keep things neat, organized and cool, and you’ll reap the benefits in the long run.

  215. We encourage a collaborative workspace. As the old adage goes, “two heads are better than one” and that saying continues to compound in truth. However, there’s a catch: while surrounding yourself with people can be extremely useful, it’s important to surround yourself with the right people. Keep a keen sense of character and work ethic when choosing office-mates, because it’s easy to get dragged down by a deadbeat, a scoundrel or a classic idiot. Surround yourself with hard-working, like-minded people who you can get along with and you’ll see an undeniable spike in your productivity.

  216. Let’s face it: nobody likes feeling cramped. There’s nothing worse than squeezing three people into the backseat of a Prius or being the last person to wedge their way into a crowded metro car. Your workspace is no different. Everyone needs enough room to spread their wings and let their creativity roam free, so make sure that there’s enough space between you and the desk/cubicle/pod/couch/etc. next to you. Working with other people is fine — in fact, we encourage it — but not when it’s on top of one another.

  217. An ideal working environment is one where there are no distractions. It is an environment which is conducive to work. In addition to this, there should be proper food and drink provided so that when working hard the employees health does not suffer in any way. Having a balanced diet is something which is very important.

  218. When you are asked this question be sure to state that an ideal working environment is one where all the employees are given praise when it is due to them. No one constantly tries to put them down just for a tiny mistake which they might have made when getting a job done. After all, we are just human beings and not gods. Making mistakes is something which is natural.

  219. An interview is where you have to really show all that you have to offer. If you are unable to put your best foot forward then a good job opportunity will slip through your hands. On being asked this question state that an ideal working environment is one where people are ever willing to help you if you are in trouble. They assist you whenever you are feeling low or down. It is the job of company’s boss to ensure his company runs as a well-oiled machine.

  220. An ideal working environment is most obviously one where all the employees work unanimously as a team. No one is trying to get ahead, by putting the next one down. It is rather unfortunate that the business world is rather famous for being cutthroat. State in your answer that though you are someone who would love to get ahead and be successful in your career, you would never consider even for a moment doing something like this. You would consider a working environment as ideal if everyone was secure in their own position and work collectively for the good of the company.

  221. All employees have the dream of getting ahead in the company which they are working for. As long as promotions are carried out in a free and fair manner employees do not feel bad. The moment employees understand that promotions are being given based on favoritism then that is the thing which is going to make them feel betrayed. When you are asked this question by the recruiter state that you believe an ideal working environment is one where merit is rewarded at all times. There is no discriminated on the basis of caste creed or sex. Saying this will really show you to be someone who is very clear-sighted and morally righteous.

  222. It is very unfortunate that nowadays most companies are very closed about what they are doing. It is because of this lack of transparency where corruption is on the rampant. Once the employees are aware of the fact that such corruption is taking place behind closed doors it is unlikely that they will be feeling like giving their best towards the company. State in your answer that you are someone who values honesty and integrity above everything else and it is for this reason that you consider an ideal working environment one where there is no corruption of any kind.

  223. There are many companies where the seniors simply refuse to help the newcomers, this is mainly because they want to establish their superiority and secondly because they fear that the newcomers will get better than them and replace them in the time to come. Once asked this question you should state that you believe an ideal working environment is one where the seniors are very helpful and supportive to the newcomers. All employee neither young or old shouldn’t be made to feel inferior in any manner. State that you are someone who would be always willing to help a fresher if you were in a position of advantage.

  224. Workplace violence is something which is more common than you might think. There are many employees especially women who often feel very threatened and worried when they walk into their place of work. Due to the fear playing on these victims minds they are unable to bring out the best in themselves. When the person taking your interviewer asks you this question, state that an ideal working environment is one where no one has any kind of fear playing on their mind. A working environment should be well guarded by armed securities, who know exactly what to do when trouble of any kind breaks out.

  225. It is often said that only people who are silly and very narrow-minded indulge in gossip. People who are brimming with new ideas and dreams never have time for such pettiness. So when the recruiter of the companies asks you such a question in the course of your interview, do state that an ideal working environment is one where people are constantly so preoccupied with their work and projects at hand that they never sit around ideally gossiping about people who they don’t like. State boldly that you are someone who never indulges in things like this because you find it very low.

  226. In any office whether small or big, there is always some extent of workplace politics. In some companies, the workplace politics is of a positive kind but in other companies, the workplace politics is a very unhealthy and bad kind. On being asked this question you should surely make a mention of the fact that an ideal working environment for you is one where there is certainly healthy competition. After all healthy competition makes people rise to the occasion and bring out the best in themselves. Unhealthy workplace politics makes some meek people feel both vulnerable and insecure.

  227. When you are asked this question pertaining to an ideal working environment, do make it a point to state that an ideal working environment is one where the employees are given the freedom to think outside the box without having any kind of fear in mind. There are many companies which try and curb the creativity of the employees by telling them to always go by the books, yet a company which has an ideal working environment will not instill such fear in the minds of those who are working under them. Employees should be taught that failure is something which is a part of life which cannot be run away from.

  228. An ideal work environment extends beyond physical things like comfortable chairs and air-conditioning. It is an environment where there is a lot of positivity and employees are really encouraged at all points in time. If a working atmosphere is very repulsive and negative then employees are never going to feel like doing the best they can do. All employees should be adequately rewarded when they happen to do a task well. If the employees are never given bonuses or incentives then they will see no need to push the boundaries and excel at every task which is handed to them.

  229. Believe it or not, having the right kind of light is very important in the workplace. If the office is poorly lit up then chances are that the employees too are likely to feel very restless and sleepy. So when the interviewer asks you this question do not forget to include this point in your answer as well. It may seem like a small or insignificant thing to say, but if you at least make a mention of it, your interviewer is sure to understand that you are someone who takes in to account even the smallest of things. Lighting is something that instantly makes a person feel awake or sleepy, so it does help in setting a working environment.

  230. Good quality work is never produced in an atmosphere or environment of noise or chaos. All individuals need to function in a calm and stress-free manner in order to bring out the best in themselves. So the candidate must answer by saying that an ideal working environment is one which is quiet and peaceful so that the employees are really able to get in touch with their inner thoughts as well as feelings. Good companies are those where the manager is able to enforce strict discipline so that no one thinks it is alright to shout or talk loudly.

  231. If a boss of a company wants his company to do well and flourish, it is very important that he should be willing to spend some of the company profits on technology. It is no secret that we are living in a technological age and if companies do not keep up with the changing times it is unlikely that they will be able to compete properly with other leading businesses. So in the course of your answer, do mention that an ideal working environment is one where there is proper infrastructure available for the employees so that they are able to do all their work in a proper and time efficient manner.

  232. When you are asked this question in the course of an interview, it is very important that at the start of your answer you talk about the physical aspect of things. You must begin by stating an ideal work environment is one which is kept clean and tidy. No individual likes working in an environment which is dirty and unhygienic. Keeping the office clean is not merely the responsibility of the cleaning staff, but it is the responsibility of everyone working in the company as well. Saying this will really leave a good impression in the mind of the person taking your interview.

  233. Manufacturing operations are dynamic in nature. There is continuous innovation in types of products manufactured as well as in equipment, techniques, and processes of production. Therefore the layout should be designed in such a way that the layout is flexible enough to adapt to changes.

  234. Have team-bonding activities that let the team focus on the positive sides of each member and negate the negative ones. Celebrate events like birthdays for each member of your team to show the exclusivity. Deal with issues together. Basically, whatever it is that you do, do it as a team.

  235. As social beings, we naturally seek support from our peers and seek to belong to a group. Come tough times, the team should come together to deal with whatever problems are out there. This is where a sense of unity is evoked in the team and employees will no longer just feel that they’re working for themselves. They are now working towards something bigger than themselves and as a team.

  236. Apart from having a system of monetary rewards in place to award those who perform at work, daily interactions can also be a good means of recognizing efforts. It’s free too! Managers ought to verbalize their appreciations for simple little things when employees go the extra mile. However, these should be made specific and personal for the employee to feel that what they do are being taken seriously and appreciated.

  237. Rewards are necessary to encourage certain behaviors in persons. This is known as positive reinforcement under operant conditioning in the field of psychology. It is used in organizational behavior management as well: by rewarding employees who put in an effort for their work, this will promote similar behaviors in the future.

  238. When employees fulfill their various needs and goals in life, such as those of family, friends, spiritual pursuits, self-growth, etc, they can then feel more confident about themselves and perform their best at work. Apart from that, employees that are exposed to more experiences in life outside of work can use what they’ve gained and apply that to their work. Work-life balance can promote creativity and out-of-the-box thinking.

  239. There has to be some sort of balance between work and personal life. In general, having that sense of balance will improve job satisfaction among employees because they will feel that they’re not overlooking the other areas of their lives that are, if not more, important to them than work.

  240. The open form of communication addresses the employee’s need to feel that what they have to say has value. It is what makes employees feel that they belong to the organization. Work then becomes meaningful because the employees know that what they contribute affects the organization that they are affiliated with.

  241. Companies that only look at resumes and experience when hiring are far less successful (IMHO) than ones that hire people that are passionate about their work and the industry. I’ll hire passion over experience any day.

  242. A small business flourishes when management fosters an atmosphere of open communication. When you communicate with your employees, you gain valuable insights regarding the work atmosphere, such as learning about small problems before they can escalate. To encourage open communication, ask your supervisors to make themselves visible instead of remaining behind a closed office door for the entire day or put out regular newsletters to keep employees abreast of the latest company developments.

  243. A major factor in the success of your business is your ability to innovate. Innovation allows you to stay one step ahead of the competition and prevent product or service stagnation. Your employees are an excellent resource for innovative ideas, so be sure to seek their input and reward them for their creativity.

  244. Great small businesses permit their workers a great deal of autonomy regarding how they perform specific job tasks. The idea behind this autonomy is that the more freedom and input the worker has in performing her job, the greater meaning it will have to her, which increases her motivation to do the job well.

  245. It is no coincidence that the root word of “culture” is “cult.” Today, people identify themselves by the communities and social groups to which they belong. Create an environment where team members truly feel connected. Ideally, this starts with an intensive hiring process and a culture that states that you only work with people who are the best at what they do. Those individuals who make the cut will feel like they’ve made it into your company’s inner circle.

  246. We’ve all heard it before: “People don’t leave companies, they leave managers.” Managers should prepare their team members for success by establishing clear objectives for each employee and by connecting these goals directly to the goals of the team/department and the company as a whole.

  247. If your employees don’t feel like they are growing in a meaningful way, both personally and professionally, they won’t be around for long. However, if they’re immersed in a growth culture and feel like the company and their managers want them to get better for their own sake (not just the company’s), real magic will occur.

  248. Work-life balance is a thing of the past. To truly flourish today, companies need a workspace that allows for work-life integration by creating a seamless experience for employees both in and out of the office. Your workspace ought to be a place where employees actually want to spend their time and should be set up to encourage behaviors that support your company’s values.

  249. As human beings, there are few things we crave more than significance. Genuine recognition, both one-on-one and in front of peers, is a great way to let people know that they matter and are appreciated. Awesome companies create systems to ensure that recognition is consistently flowing and ingrained into their culture.

  250. A positive mission statement outlines the goals and demonstrative behavior that exemplify the highest commitment to quality and service to each other, the company, customers, and shareholders. The company sets out to achieve its goals in ethical, honest ways with an elevated sense of purpose to improving the planet and humanity.

  251. If you know a roommate plays loud music then set up your study space down the hall. If there is nothing to distract you it’s a lot easier to get through something as you don’t have to go back and redo the calculation or try to remember what you had planned out for the next sentence.

  252. ry to find a balance between the two, or a dimmer would be Ideal. Even a small table lamp you can turn on to read a paper document better would be useful. Having light helps you feel less stressed and allows you to concentrate on what you are doing without any strain or discomfort.

  253. Creating a positive working environment is high on the list of every entrepreneur who wants his employees to work better and with pleasure. Even small details can impact their productivity and performance, so everything, from the temperature in an office to team-building events, is significant for crafting a workplace and keeping your colleagues motivated.

  254. Color has long been proven to affect people’s productivity at work. The Color Effects System, developed by world-renown color psychologist Angela Wright, determines that while individuals might have certain preferences for color, the effects of color influence people universally.

  255. As managers, leaders and business owners, there is a duty of care and responsibility to look after the health and wellbeing of your team. Sometimes work can be stressful, which is to be expected, but working in a tense or stressful atmosphere can impact a person’s mental wellbeing and feelings of happiness; therefore, try to keep the environment as positive and cheerful as possible. Happy employees tend to be more productive ones too!

  256. Air, light and other elements around the office environment can be overlooked when designing an office environment or layout. However, factors such as indoor air quality can impact employee concentration, energy level, and mood, with poor air quality accounting for an average 9 percent loss of productivity in the workplace.

  257. Too much caffeine can cause dehydration and fatigue, which could affect employee concentration and performance. By installing water coolers around the office, you can encourage employees to stay hydrated. It’s so easy for people to forget to keep hydrated when they’re busy – so place them in key places such as near desks, in meeting rooms, in the kitchen/canteen. You can read our blog on the importance of staying hydrated here.

  258. Find every opportunity you can to keep employees moving in their daily routines, whether it’s getting up from their chairs once every hour or using the stairs instead of the lifts. You could even be more creative by adding standing workstations for interested employees, or try exercise balls rather than office chairs for staff who sit much of the day, to encourage movement!

  259. To encourage employees to be healthier at work, make sure vending machines and business meetings are stocked with healthier options, such as water, nuts, and fruit. A weekly ‘free fruit box’ delivery could be seen as a perk of the job whilst also encouraging team members to eat healthier.

  260. One of the biggest complaints from employees is that they don’t feel appreciated. The second someone gives us a “nice job” or “you made a difference on this project,” we feel like we matter in a way that gives our work a sense of purpose. If you’re not so inclined to give out verbal gold stars, an easy place to start is with a simple “thank you.”

  261. Ever hear of the Hawthorne effect? It’s the increase in productivity in the workplace when people feel that they are cared about. It makes people happy to be asked how they are and for you to take a little time to find out how things are going in their lives. That doesn’t mean spending hours at the water cooler having conversations about people’s lives. It means remembering to take the time to say, “How are you”.

  262. We have a tendency not to focus on the big picture when we are really busy. This prevents us from creating perks or planning fun events that make the workplace happier. Treat people to something surprisingly good and fun. A day at the amusement park, a movie in the afternoon with popcorn and candy, chair massages. Anything you can think of to make people feel that you are doing something nice for them will make people feel happier.

  263. Make a point of encouraging people to say hi to each other. Sounds simple but it is actually an incredible way to build a sense of workplace community and something that busy focused people forget. Start by making it a policy to have your executives and managers make sure to take the time to say hi. Choose ambassadors from all different levels and areas of your company to do the same. Acknowledging people can change the entire atmosphere and make your workplace be a much nicer place.

  264. You can have a happy workplace if you take the time to make it a happy workplace. Hire happy people. Don’t get caught up in focusing on the negative and make sure to do the little things that make a difference in people’s lives. It won’t be a major cultural change at first but I can promise you that slowly but surely, your workplace will become a better place and people will do better work.
    That should make you very happy.

  265. Do something to give back to your community or to the world. Having a company-wide initiative that makes a difference will make people feel connected to the greater good. Take a poll. Find out what people care about and get their opinions on how best to accomplish those goals.

  266. Lots of places get caught up in the negative. They debrief by going over what didn’t work. Turn that around. Focus on the positive. That doesn’t mean that you should ignore the things that need to be improved on, it just means that when you are looking for the good, you will find the good. If you look for the bad, everything will seem bleak.

  267. Lots of places get caught up in the negative. They debrief by going over what didn’t work. Turn that around. Focus on the positive. That doesn’t mean that you should ignore the things that need to be improved on, it just means that when you are looking for the good, you will find the good. If you look for the bad, everything will seem bleak.

  268. Part of the secret to being happy at work is to encourage people to have personal career goals. When people feel that they are working toward something, the day-to-day politics and stresses of the workplace don’t matter as much. Each challenging day can be better tolerated because it is a means to a personal end. People are able to separate themselves from their jobs and not become mired in the negativity when they are focused on reaching personal goals.

  269. Ever hear of the Hawthorne effect? It’s the increase in productivity in the workplace when people feel that they are cared about. It makes people happy to be asked how they are and for you to take a little time to find out how things are going in their lives. That doesn’t mean spending hours at the water cooler having conversations about people’s lives. It means remembering to take the time to say, “How are you”.

  270. We have a tendency not to focus on the big picture when we are really busy. This prevents us from creating perks or planning fun events that make the workplace happier. Treat people to something surprisingly good and fun. A day at the amusement park, a movie in the afternoon with popcorn and candy, chair massages. Anything you can think of to make people feel that you are doing something nice for them will make people feel happier.

  271. Hiring people who are going to help make your workplace happier will take a little thought and preparation. It is natural to focus on relevant experience and past achievements when interviewing a candidate. And you are right to want those things for your company. But ignoring the personality is a mistake.

  272. Create a sense of community by organizing social events outside of work hours. This could be a drink after work on Friday, a Christmas meal at a restaurant or a trip to the bowling alley. Social events allow co-workers to get to know each other better. This can lead to enhanced teamwork and cooperation. However, no one should feel under pressure to take part in social activities and some employees may not be able to attend due to other commitments.

  273. If space allows, provide an area where your staff can relax during breaks. This area should be separate from the places where people work. Furnish the rest area with chairs, tables, and comfortable sofas. Allow your employees to eat lunch there, and add a rack of magazines for them to read.

  274. If space allows, provide an area where your staff can relax during breaks. This area should be separate from the places where people work. Furnish the rest area with chairs, tables, and comfortable sofas. Allow your employees to eat lunch there, and add a rack of magazines for them to read.

  275. Learn when to unwind and have a good time!
    Parties, after work hours, and easy opportunities to relax and unwind are important when fostering a creative, inclusive environment. Facebook is one of the best when it comes to this, with fully stocked bars in the building, parties on a weekly basis and more.

  276. This is my office. It’s cozy, it’s small and it’s in my attic. It’s also one of my favorite places to work.
    While not everyone has the freedom to work at home, everyone should be given the opportunity, at least on occasion. The relaxation and freedom it offers are perfect for some people.

  277. This should come as no surprise. Pixar’s offices are a temple to creative thinking and freedom of expression.
    This is just looking at some of the dozens of cool things Pixar’s animators, designers, and writers experience every day at work. From homey offices to lounge lighting, and themed offices from their movies, there’s nothing “normal” about working for Pixar.

  278. Special event or not, Zappos has put together a heck of an office environment. Trees, plants, and all things green not only bring some much-needed vibrancy to normally bland, dull cubicles, but they bridge that gap between indoor and outdoor that is often nearly impossible for a professional desk jockey.

  279. Let’s strip things down a bit and talk about “coworking.”
    While the world’s biggest tech and marketing firms are showing off all the cool things they do for their employees, there are start-ups and small businesses finding their own way to bust out of the mold.

  280. If your workplace allows it, switching to a standing desk can help you sit less and move more during the day. But being on your feet all day can also lead to aches and pains, so look for a setup that allows you to adjust the height or your work station and use a chair when needed.

  281. You spend about half of your waking hours at your job. While certain jobs like construction or manual labor have clear hazards, you can’t assume that if you are clocking time in an office environment that it’s a healthy place to be. Many occupations deliver stress, sedentary behavior, and unhealthy habits along with the paycheck, which can take their toll both physically and mentally.

  282. Today’s drive towards a healthier happier workforce is supported by a mass of evidence. Many organizations are already seeing the benefits of offering their team perks like a free gym membership, fitness wearables and sit-stand desking. Embracing more active ways of working like walking meetings is also a great way to promote healthier employees.

  283. Today’s talent pool is looking for more than wages and employee perks. Flexible working, both in terms of location and time spent in the office is a growth for a good reason. Allowing employees a flexible approach to their work-life balance helps them to work more effectively and gain better results for your organization.

  284. A great office would never be complete without a range of different personalities. Variety is the spice of life and this is certainly true when referring to people. A mix of characters brings a mix of skills to the table, enabling your business to grow in ways that you would never have thought possible.

  285. Within any intelligently designed office space will be a collection of spaces that facilitate the range of activities that are performed by your workforce. This could include private zones for high-concentration tasks, or informal meeting spaces for team catch-ups or meetings.

  286. Communication is one of the most important aspects of business, and indeed life itself. Nurturing excellent communication is within reach of every organization. Ensure that your workspace is designed to help your people communicate and collaborate effectively. Be like Google and design your workspace to enhance the happening of Chance Encounters.

  287. A Positive team spirit will be born out of good people combining forces to work towards a greater goal. Without team spirit, good people are almost wasted. There’s an African Proverb; ‘If you want to go fast go alone if you want to go far go together’. If you have a good team spirit in your organization, the possibilities are endless.

  288. Your people are what really make up your organization. A successful organization doesn’t happen without great people. An effective talent retention and attraction strategy will help you to hold onto your best team players and recruit new ones as your company grows and develops.

  289. There’s no question that a well-thought-out office offers clear returns. Some people look at staff as a cost, some look at staff as an investment, but either way, at some point you’re going to have to spend something. An activity-based setting doesn’t have to cost more, it just has to be better thought out

  290. People tend to say they just want a space that works! The key is to remember, like any system, it’s about energy in and energy out. Well-meaning people create a brief saying ‘This is what we want’ but anything that’s assumption-based rather than evidence-based will only give a cursory solution. We work with evidence

  291. Do something kind for someone else (especially someone who wouldn’t expect it). Offer to help them with something, give them a snack or treat, or simply ask them how their evening or weekend was or about something going on in their life.

  292. If you work with a lot of people around you, germs can easily spread and getting sick is always a setback to productivity. Your health is important to staying focused and maintaining a positive attitude while working. To prevent yourself from becoming ill, be sure that your work environment stays sterile.

  293. We all have that one room, that one corner of the house, or that desk drawer that holds mysterious items and all of our miscellaneous objects. It becomes our black hole of unrelated things…but there’s nothing ‘out of this world’ about it. It’s just plain clutter.

  294. Open office layouts are a necessity in many cases, but you should consider providing a few areas where employees can retreat if they need quiet or solitude to concentrate on a difficult project. It can cut down on the stress and interruptions, which improves mood and productivity.

  295. Being on the move and working in multiple locations can be a real strain. For this scenario, you need a lightweight, portable, easy to assemble a solution to use in a wide range of locations. Fellowes have recently launched the Laptop Go Riser™, ideal for working on the move.

  296. advertising can be stressful, but because we are so professional in our approach with one another at AbelsonTaylor, the environment is “gentler” than in many other places. I hear the words “please,” “thanks” and “I’m sorry” (when appropriate) every day and that makes our environment the most considerate I’ve worked in during my entire care

  297. Limiting the need to role-play (including executives) would significantly improve most environments. The senior people who today feel they have to look grim and driven and acting tough all the time wouldn’t have to. They can be themselves, expressing normal emotions and getting things done, with other people, without drama or finger pointing in judgment.

  298. with businesses becoming more aware of their own responsibilities in terms of mental health, as well as the impact that they can have on their employees, the good news is that there is something that can be done for those businesses that are open-minded and have a forward-thinking attitude.

  299. These statistics are obviously worrying for businesses because lost working days means lower productivity and profits, but there’s also the reality that staff who are not thriving mentally are not thriving professionally. When someone is not happy at work, they are unlikely to be performing at their best.

  300. While most of us would probably think of physical ailments as the most likely to affect employees, anxiety and stress are two of the biggest causes of illness that workers face in the UK. These two mental health issues alone, often brought on by the rigors of day-to-day work, account for as many as 45 percent of all lost working days, according to the Health and Safety Executive

  301. a study found that employees who were able to customize a small office with small pictures and plants were up to 32 percent more productive than those who were not able to customize their office space, 99u reported. Employees with control over their space also identified more with their employer.

  302. A 2008 Texas State University study suggested that a few green plants in the office can have a real impact on worker happiness. Researchers surveyed 450 office workers and found that those who worked in offices with plants and window views reported feeling better about their jobs than those in windowless offices with no greenery.

  303. Grant Butrum, a dedicated employee, once said, “I could go on and on about my work environment but at the end of the day, the most important thing that I notice is that people work hard and enjoy their job when they work for a company that genuinely cares for their employees. You can’t ask for a better environment!”

  304. Working to create an excellent work environment has become a strategic pillar, as companies have understood that contributing to the well-being and happiness of their employees has a direct impact on the quality of services, customer satisfaction, and therefore, on both their and the client’s profitability and growth