Category Archives: Employee engagement

7 Keys to Creating a Hybrid Work Schedule

1. Communicate

It is essential to go over the new policy with all employees before it goes into effect. This way they can ask any questions and voice their concerns. To ease employees’ worries about how this will impact their schedules or other aspects of their jobs discuss hypothetical examples that explain how the schedule will work and share success stories of other companies that have successfully implemented a hybrid work schedule in their workplace. This way employees will understand exactly how this change will affect them and they can feel confident that their concerns have been addressed.

2. Identify scheduling and moral issues

A survey should be distributed to employees asking them about their concerns and ideas for the new policy. If possible, it would also help to gather feedback from managers as well. Look at how employees currently spend their time and identify any scheduling issues that may arise. For example, employees may be worried about how they will get projects done if they are expected to work 50 hours in four days instead of 40 hours over five days. Morale also needs to be considered. Employees who feel like their work schedule has become more flexible and fair are going to have a greater commitment to the company.

3. Create a detailed proposal

Once you have gathered all of this feedback, it’s time to create an official proposal with details on how the new policy will be implemented. Articulate precisely what the compressed workweek portion of the policy entails and present any rules that apply to employees who choose to take advantage of flextime. Also, be specific about which jobs qualify for the compressed workweek or remote working and how much time employees have to take advantage of it.

4. Include management training

If managers are expected to complete their regular duties during the hours when most employees are at home there needs to be proper training in place so they can manage these responsibilities effectively. Managers will also need to be properly trained in the concept of a flexible workplace if they are expected to supervise employees whose schedules differ significantly from their own. Also, if employees are working different hours from their managers they may have trouble communicating or sharing information. Proper training in collaboration and communication will help integrate these teams into a productive, well-oiled machine.

5. Provide support for shift workers

If shift workers are included in the new policy they should have two weeks to weigh the pros and cons before deciding whether or not they want to participate. Since there may be scheduling conflicts with their outside commitments, this period will allow them to work it out and give them ample opportunity to voice their concerns and suggestions. Allowing some lead time before launch will also help management identify potential problems that may require more thought before the policy goes into effect.

6. Launch gradually

Although it may seem like implementing a new policy overnight will prevent further complications, launching the policy too quickly will only cause issues that can potentially delay or derail the change. Before choosing this route, consider how much time you need to launch properly and present this method as an alternative to your employees. If they are concerned about lack of preparation, ask them to help you brainstorm ways the change can be successfully implemented. The more input your employees have the better.

7. Train employees for success

Change can be difficult and it is important to encourage employees who will soon begin working a hybrid schedule to have realistic expectations. The new policy should provide them with social support from coworkers, supervisors, and human resources so they know they are not going through this alone. If everything has been done correctly the transition to a hybrid workweek should be a smooth one that both managers and employees are happy with.

It is important to remember that the goal of an agile workplace is to better accommodate employees’ needs and provide them with more growth opportunities. It can be difficult to change company policy, but organizations should remain open-minded about new ways to boost their business performance. Following these tips will help managers ensure that their employees are satisfied and respected under a new policy like the hybrid workweek.

If you need help finding office space, whether conventional or flexible space, we can help. Contact us today for a no-obligation discussion on how we can help.

How to Easily Transition Employees Back to the Office

You’re not alone if you’re worried about how your team will handle the move back tothe office to whatever sort of in-person work your company plans. Most employees, you’ve already seen, don’t want to go back to whatever normal looked like before the outbreak.

According to a recent Harvard Business School survey of 1,500 employees, 81 percent of them either don’t want to come back to the office or prefer a hybrid work paradigm. Of them, 27 percent want to work from home full-time, while 61 percent want to work from home two to three days a week. Only 18 percent want to return to full-time in-person work.

While those percentages may vary depending on your team, it’s safe to assume that the vast majority of your employees will be disappointed when your company reveals its plans for a return to work.

So, how can you keep your staff motivated and engaged during a corporate transition as a leader? Of course, part of that will be dictated by factors outside your control, such as the level of flexibility provided by your employer.

Employees will be less resistant to the move back to the office if they have greater control over their work structure. Setting aside the things you can’t control, there are a few things you can do to make the transition to whatever your company’s version of “next” looks like easier for everyone.

1. Be open without appearing to be a victim

When you can’t provide employees with the level of flexibility they expect, listen to their concerns and disappointments with empathy. Make as much information regarding the organization’s logic for the policies in place as possible.

Never say something like, “I’m sorry, but it’s out of my control,” as this shows weakness and defensiveness, which will likely irritate them even more. Early on, bring up any issues you have and convey them regularly.

People will assume you know more about new regulations and protocols than you do, and you may be asked questions for which you have no satisfactory answer. Learning to respond honestly will be crucial to demonstrating excellent leadership.

Inform them ahead of time about any impending changes you learn about, and let them know what you’re doing to keep them informed. You may help ensure that others’ expectations don’t become roadblocks in an already difficult shift by successfully managing their expectations.

2. Documentation

There will almost certainly be a lot to keep staff up to date on when they return to work. In reaction to lost revenue, new office regulations regarding health and hygiene may have been created, new programs may have been implemented, and bonuses and incentives may have been updated.

Each and every returning employee should be given documentation on any office changes, and if there are a lot, you might want to prepare a packet and keep it on each person’s desk. Even if they are receiving digital pay statements, it is a good idea to include a YTD paystub in the package. YTD stands for year to date. This will help the individual to reorient themselves to the new normal and assess their personal progress so far this year and make it easier for them to create a pay stub.

3. Involve the team in balancing the requirements of individuals and the collective.

If you have some control over how WFH regulations are implemented on your team, you’ll need to figure out how to apply those principles to specific situations without being unjust to others. After being apart for so long, it’s critical to reestablish cohesion, so you don’t want to start with some people feeling resentful of the flexibility you provide others but not them.

Engage your staff in determining how to best use the discretion you’ve been given wherever possible. Allow each member to voice their requirements and preferences, and then charge the team with balancing them within the parameters set. Single parents, for example, may have different flexibility requirements than those caring for aging parents. When it is their decision to do so, people will be more flexible, even sacrificing, for the sake of the team.

Encourage the team to develop new work practices that everyone follows for both where and when work is done. Ensure that all meetings, for example, have video links so that individuals working from home can participate equally.

Set specific work hours, such as 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. ET, during which everyone must be available online, as well as weekend boundaries during which everyone is expected to be offline. If you’re having a large meeting, have everyone attend from their computer, whether they’re at home or at work, so no one feels left out.

People will be significantly more dedicated to the solutions they help build, and the creativity they demonstrate may energize and generate excitement for the transition, alleviating whatever anxiety they may be feeling.

4. Allow people to grieve in their own time.

Regardless of the level of flexibility you provide, the transfer from WFH may signify more than just a loss of control over their time for individuals. Some folks were bereaved by Covid-19 but never had the opportunity to say their final goodbyes. Others renewed their relationships with their spouses and reached new levels of intimacy with their children.

Others have created personal routines that will be interrupted as a result of the changes. Allow individuals to grieve the loss of whatever this past season has meant for them, no matter how good “next” may be. Some people may appear to be unusually silent. Others are a little terse.

Some people may become teary-eyed when a coworker recalls their family. If you give folks the opportunity to let go of the last 18 months, they’ll be more able to embrace the new normal you’re encouraging them to help build.

5. Bring all of the pandemic stories together in one place.

While the pandemic’s horrors cannot be overstated, there were some unexpected benefits and lessons for many. As dinner tables functioned as classrooms and workplaces, there were WFH blunders with video cameras and kitchen pandemonium.

Unexpected revelations of personal resilience and inventiveness, as well as revelations of personal limitations, necessitated the development of self-compassion. One of the organizations with which I work is throwing a “return-to-next” reentry party, at which each team member will build a digital scrapbook of their favorite pandemic experiences.

You can assist your team see each other in a new perspective by sharing aspects of the past 18 months that they encountered while separated. We will not be the same people we were 18 months ago. Creating a unique experience to uncover who you each became will renew your team’s relationships while reinvigorating your excitement for the future.

6. Be a source of happiness.

Creating a sense of lightheartedness for your team is one of the finest methods to alleviate any angst they may be experiencing. There are certain aspects of working life that individuals miss: routines that your team liked, festivities that were halted, and opportunities to go off camera and feel less isolated.

According to a PwC report from June 2020, 50% of employees believe that teamwork and relationship building are better in person. Assist folks in seeing how you’ll be able to reestablish those things once everyone has returned. Humor, when utilized properly, may be very beneficial in bringing delight to others.

Share your own tales of WFH mayhem to encourage others to do the same. This is an especially opportune opportunity for you, as the team’s leader, to demonstrate servanthood by doing all you can to personally ease the transition for team members who may find it tough. Demonstrating true support today will strengthen the team’s loyalty and commitment to one another, as well as to your performance goals for the year. This way you mill some high income skills as a team leader.

If the move to WFH wasn’t difficult enough, returning to the office could be even more challenging. Our minds will be searching for familiar routines to “return” to, but they will not exist. Our brains will have to devote extra energy to adjust on the go if this happens.

This transition will encourage us all to bring our best selves back to work and demonstrate how the pandemic has strengthened us. Knowing this, your job as the team’s leader is critical in assisting people in navigating this with optimism, kindness, and patience in order to ensure that those are the versions that come up.

And if you are looking for an office for your employees to return to, we can help! Our local reps know the market, know the landlords and know who takes care of their buildings. Contact us if we can help! No obligation.

7 Key Factors When Choosing A New Office Space

Your office space isn’t just any other space–it’s the center of innovative ideas and the collective effort of your whole team. That being said, you should always be extra prudent when choosing a new office space.

Whether relocating or starting up, here are several things to consider when choosing a new office space for your company:

Location

The first item to tick off your priority list is the office’s location. Choose a location that’s easy to access, not only for you but also for your employees. Ideally, the office space should be accessible for your clients, partners, and suppliers. Also, consider its proximity to necessities such as public transportation, restaurants and other amenities.

Parking is also another factor to consider when choosing the location. Is there adequate parking for both your employees and customers? You don’t want your customers getting frustrated because they couldn’t find a parking space. Downtown locations generally have very limited parking so it is important to decide how much parking you will need.

Infrastructure

Infrastructure involves several aspects, not just the internet connection. Of course, you want an office space that has reliable connectivity, especially since, nowadays, a business may find it difficult to function without an internet connection. But also take into consideration other aspects of infrastructure like telephone connections and postal services.

If you’re planning to buy a property and turn it into an office space, you need to ensure that the infrastructure is good, especially the availability of good Internet access, electrical, heating and cooling (HVAC), and plumbing systems. If you are planning major renovations for a rehab, check out what is in stock at EasyMerchant.

Your Clients And Other Stakeholders

If you’re moving to a new office, you need to consider if your clients and other stakeholders will find it easy to access the new office. If you’ve been operating in your old office for some time, they’ve undoubtably acquired familiarity with the location and everything around it.

Tasks And Workforce Amenities

Amenities are also an important consideration in determining how comfortable your team will be in the new office. Are there enough amenities for the whole workforce to use and enjoy? An example would be conference facilities that can accommodate the whole team whenever you need to hold a company-wide meeting.

If you’re renting, there are important amenities that should be present in the building like shared meeting areas and daycare centers. Other amenities that may be considered are fitness centers, a lounge, cafes, and even outdoor spaces for tenants.

These amenities will ensure that your organization remains productive at work, and, most importantly, encourage employees to come to the office more frequently, especially if you are implementing an agile workplace with remote work.

Scalability

Scalability means the capacity of your office space to be changed or modified either by size or by scale. Your new office space needs to be flexible enough to accommodate the size of your workforce and it should also have enough room to grow your team.

With scalable office space, you don’t need to worry about having to relocate again just because the space can no longer accommodate your growing company.

Competition

While the office usually needs to be situated in a place where business is centralized, you also need to consider if there are competitors in your prospective area. Make sure and do some research to find out if there will be any competitors that would impact your business nearby.

Price

Whether you’re renting or buying the whole property, you need to know if the asking price is fairly competitive for its location and amenities. If the landlord is not providing tenant improvements, an allowance for them or if you’ll need to do any remodeling and or reconstruction yourself, make sure the price for such is reflected in the price. It is important to make sure you know what it is going to cost prior to signing a lease. You don’t want any nasty surprises after you are committed to a long term agreement.

Conclusion

A productive office space isn’t only for your team’s benefits, but also for the image of your company. Choosing a new office isn’t a walk in the park, but with the help of the tips provided, you have a few of the most important things to consider when choosing a new office space. Needless to say, we recommend you obtain the services of a qualified tenant rep to help you in acquiring your office space. They do this on a day-to-day basis and know what needs to be considered to make sure you get the right space at the best price. We have over 600 local tenant reps to assist you. Contact us today to get in touch with one. No obligation to inquire. You will be glad you did.

Ways Businesses Reap Benefits of CPD

Optimal growth is the goal of everyone, and this applies to both personal and professional situations. For example, in a professional position, employees use continual professional development (CPD) to improve their skills and contribute to their growth.

The best benefits of continuing professional development are seen in employees within a shared office environment. Teamwork, common vision, excellent company culture are just a few of the perks enjoyed by businesses applying CPD.

What is CPD?

CPD stands for Continuing Professional Development, and it refers to the learning activities that professionals engage in to improve and grow their skills.

CPD also refers to any activity that allows employees to learn and grow. It takes the form of e-learning, case talks, and reading, but it may also take the form of exchanging information and difficulties with coworkers, especially in a shared office space.

Types of CPD Training

There are a variety of activities that employees may do to earn CPD points each year.

When it comes to auditing, the CPD points your workers acquire, keep in mind that they must be relevant to their present job or future career goals in the firm.

The following are some examples; however, they are not exhaustive:

Work-based education
Secondments
Being coached or mentored, as well as being coached or mentored
Online education
Courses of instruction
Providing training
Additional academic or professional credentials
Research

Benefits of CPD

CPD benefits may be viewed from two perspectives: the employees and the employers.

Employees CPD benefits

Employees that enroll in CPD courses have the following benefits

Up to date with peers in the same field’s qualifications
Maintaining and improving knowledge and abilities to provide a high-quality service
Updated with the latest trends.
A better understanding of the consequences of the job
Within their career, they may contribute to the advancement of knowledge and technology.
Employee access to specialists in several disciplines.
Possibility of boosting their public confidence in a professional or a group of professionals

Employers CPD benefits

Employers that encourage or even provide CPD courses for their staff enjoy the following benefits.

Allowing time off for CPD might help the company save money on training.

Professional organizations give some training for free, but most professionals pay for their CPD. Therefore, taking time off for suitable training might save the company money on training costs (e.g., compliance).

Companies may also generate money by having professional organizations approve their in-house training and then selling it to the rest of the world.

Supporting CPD can improve job performance.

Employees in a knowledge society must continually refresh their abilities and learn new things. CPD, according to two-thirds of respondents in a CPD Research Project, helps them do their jobs better.

CPD can motivate employees to take charge of their training and development

When people want to learn rather than being forced to, management becomes more straightforward. In addition, compliant staff will prove more efficient to the company when they take the initiative.

CPD may be used in HR procedures such as performance management

CPD has the potential to become a focal point for management debates. Individuals can link their growth to abilities that will help the organization achieve its goals through appraisals.

Employer sponsorship for CPD will help with recruiting.

The company will be regarded as a beautiful place to advance an employee’s career.

Better performing potential staff will apply at job interviews due to the support of the employer for CPD.

Employees that participate in regular CPD activities go above and beyond.

Supporting CPD might encourage professionals to go the extra mile for their company and their coworkers. Surprisingly, the CPD Research Project discovered a high link between valuing and pursuing CPD and going above and above at work.

The incorporation of CPD into a shared office environment yields the following benefits for business

Increased productivity
The recognition of professional standards.
Developing skill sets that enable businesses to do a broader range of tasks.
Ability to contribute to the company’s business plan’s success
Proper adaptation to change

At all levels of an organization, effective communication is critical to attaining productivity and sustaining great working relationships. CPD helps in bridging the gap in communication between employees and employers.

Employers that devote time and effort to establishing open lines of communication will quickly gain the trust of their staff, resulting in increased productivity, output, and overall morale.

Employees who communicate well with coworkers, supervisors, and customers, on the other hand, are always significant assets to a company, and it is a talent that may frequently set them apart from their competitors when looking for positions.

Companies that seek to benefit significantly from CPD training should organize CPD events or conventions that would help their staff in the shared office environment in the following way

Effective communicating entails keeping everyone up to date and never presuming that everyone has the same knowledge.
Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each team member
A cohesive team that strives for efficiency
Creating an atmosphere that allows colleagues to think more creatively.

CPD is a game-changer learning method that improves the efficiency and productivity of businesses by directly affecting the employee and employers.

And if you are looking for office space to house your wekk educated staff, we can help. Our network of local tenant reps are intimately familiar with their markets and offerings and can help guide you to the perfect office for your business. Contact us today for more information. No Obligation and our services are FREE!

Useful Office Cleaning Tips To Protect Your Employees

Workplace cleanliness is an indispensable measure that must be observed in any organization or industry. Cleanliness is not only essential in factories, processing plants, and laboratories but also the public and private offices. The emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic a year ago has taught organizations the significance of safeguarding the health of employees and gave a harsh reminder of never taking health and sanitation protocols for granted.

To help protect one of the most important assets – the employees – in a business organization, we will share some office office cleaning tips to keep them safe and in good health.

Hire Commercial Cleaning Services

Hiring professionals, commercial or office cleaning services, will help you to regularly maintain the cleanliness in your workplace. Cleaning service professionals are trained and well-versed in performing cleaning tasks inside and outside the office building. They have specialized equipment and cleaning materials that can efficiently clean areas that need disinfection and regular sanitation.

Australia is an excellent example of a country where cleanliness is valued in the workplace. In various cities in the country, you will be able to find several office or commercial cleaning service companies. Their services are not just land-based, but they have made their presence online as well, where you can click the link to find out more about the best cleaning services available in Melbourne, Canberra, Sydney, and other cities in Australia. The importance Australians place on workplace cleanliness is one of the reasons that helped stem the spread of COVID-19 in the country. In other countries, more industries and businesses are appreciating the essential services of office cleaners.

Invest in More Trash Receptacles in the Workplace

Offices often tend to get messy when the work area doesn’t have enough garbage bins to throw food and office wastes in. By assigning specific bays, quadrants, or locations where you can place trash bins closer to the reach of employees. You help promote cleanliness in the office by sending a strong message of proper waste disposal.

Place Visual Cleanliness Reminders in the Office

Visual cues and reminders are also effective in reinforcing the practice of cleanliness in every employee. Guide employees with visual signs on where to put their trash, emphasize the importance of three Rs (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle), or remind them to be considerate of others when using shared utilities like toilets, pantries, lounges, sleeping quarters, or cubicles (for those working in shift rotations) by cleaning them. Promoting personal hygiene and cleanliness is also an essential reminder, now that the COVID-19 pandemic has not yet dissipated.

Arrange for Regular Deep Cleaning and Disinfection Schedules

This arrangement should remain in place even if the pandemic eventually dies down. If your business already has deep cleaning and disinfection schedules before the pandemic, then you deserve a commendation for putting the safety of your employees first. You may need to set closer intervals for these specialized cleaning tasks due to the pandemic and you should keep it up for as long as your business operates within an office. For those who have not made such arrangements or those who occasionally plot deep cleaning and disinfecting schedules, it’s time to revise the program or arrangement and keep your workplace safe and clean to work in for your employees.

There are plenty of ways you can promote and enforce office cleanliness for your employees. As a wise and responsible business owner, you have to keep your employees safe, healthy and motivated to continue working and performing the best they can. Whether your business sells products or services, employees will be integral in the revenue generation and customer satisfaction in your venture. Show your employees that you care for their health and well-being by taking steps to keep office cleaning a priority and their workplace safe for them.

And if you are looking for an office that provides professional cleaning services to house your business, we can help. Our network of local tenant reps are intimately familiar with their markets and offerings and can help guide you to the perfect office for your business. Contact us today for more information. No Obligation and our services are FREE!

5 Office Design Tips That Will Help You Be More Productive

Many underestimate the power of the workplace or office design. Most offices have fluorescent lights and a basic outlook. Therefore, the first thing that pops in our minds when we hear the word office is plain colors, brown or metal desks, and black office chairs. However, there is a strong relationship between office design and productivity. We spend at least 8 hours every day in our workplaces, so it only makes sense that they should be cozy and relaxing places as well. If you are a business owner and wondering how you can make the offices in your company a more appealing working environment to increase productivity, read on as this article will provide you with the top office design tips that would help you create a productive working environment.

Choose the Right Colors

It has been proven that colors have an effect on our brain and mood. Therefore, productivity and colors are connected to each other. Each color has a different effect; for example, blue and green have a calming effect on the brain and are easy on the eyes. On the other hand, yellow boosts creativity. So, mainly bright colors stimulate the mind, and soft colors induce relaxation. You don’t have to paint all the walls with bright colors if you want to inspire creativity, as adding bright colors in different areas in the office will do.

Add a Space for Relaxation

While many business owners are against creating a space for relaxation in the workplace, researchers have proved that employees are much more productive when they are provided with space where they can unwind, recharge, and take a break in when things get tough and complicated. Think of it as a power nap that recharges our bodies and freshens up our minds. Actually, if you allow power naps in these relaxation spaces, that would be a great idea, as sometimes we need to step back a little and unwind, so we can figure out solutions for problems. Adding a cozy space for relaxation is a guaranteed way for increasing productivity.

Minimalism

The less clutter, the easier things will get done. Moreover, clutter makes people feel stressed out and uncomfortable. Minimalism has a calming effect on the brain and would make your office look chic. The fewer items are in the office, the more positive energy will enter your workplace. Furthermore, minimal furniture and items in an office reduce or eliminate the feeling of being overwhelmed. Even in open workspaces, you can apply minimalism. One of the ways to apply minimalism is by doing space partitioning with tool accommodation for a clutter-free desktop area. Also, applying minimalism is very cost-effective. When employees start their day in a simple, chic office, they feel more relaxed and become more productive.

Use Scents

Scents have the power to stimulate our senses, and the same with colors, each scent has a different effect on our brain. For instance, peppermint scent is energizing and refreshing and helps people focus more, citrus scents help in reducing stress and have an uplifting effect, and lavender promotes calmness and wellness. You can put essential oil diffusers around your office to avoid using scented candles to eliminate the risk of accidental fires.

Add Plants

There is no denying that plants have a refreshing yet calming effect on us. We always go back to our innate love for nature because we are natural-loving beings, and we are connected to plants and nature in a way or another. To bring good and positive vibes to your workplace, add potted plants and vases in the work area. Any kind of plant will do the trick. Moreover, other than increasing productivity, plants purify the air in the office.

You cannot expect employees to reach their full potential and do their best when they work in a boring, bland workspace. In order to make your employees happier and keep them motivated, you need to provide them with the right working environment. Everything in the workspace has a direct effect on the employees’ productivity like the wall colors, scents, and furniture. Adding greenery to the office creates a fresh, energizing feel and invites positive energy to the place. Moreover, creating a cozy space, where employees can take a break from work and recharge, is proven to increase the employees’ productivity. Besides, all of these solutions for increased productivity won’t cost you a lot of money, on the contrary, they might even cut costs.

And if you are looking for an office for your company where everyone can be more productive at work, let us know and we will show you how we can help you acquire your next office space. Our services are free to you.

3 Tips To Sync Your Home Office With Your Main Office

As more employees are permitted to work from home, remote work has become more acceptable among companies and employers. There’s all the more reason why you should sync your home office with your main office, by setting up your home office in such a way that it would bring out your productivity and creativity.

If you’re planning to set up your home office or do some minor changes to your current one, you might want to start checking out for office desks and gather some ideas.

1. Choose Your Location

In syncing your home office with your main office, the first thing you have to settle is the location inside your house where you’ll set up your home office. As they would say in website design: build around user behavior, and not the other way around. In much the same way, set up in a spot where family members don’t go.

In choosing a location observe every corner of the house and think about which part is least frequented by everyone at home.
As much as possible, choose a spot which has a door you can close or lock. This works both ways. It helps you close yourself in and focus on your work, away from the distractions in the house. It also helps you separate your working hours from your rest hours, by closing your office at the end of each working day.
Another thing you have to keep in mind in choosing your work spot or location is potential distractions from other members of your household. If you have kids, or if there are toddlers inside the house, try to choose a location which they don’t frequent or isn’t likely to be a place where they’d be doing their role-playing or pretend games. If you have pets such as cats or dogs, you’ll also have to think of a place which they won’t frequent or they might inadvertently tear a report or important document.

2. Surrounding That Helps You Focus

The next thing you have to consider when thinking of setting up your home office is, you should set it up in a surrounding which would help you focus. Whether you work in the office or at home, being able to focus on your work and specific tasks at hand is one of the most important things that would help you finish the work you need to do.

Your surroundings should enable you to focus and concentrate on your work. If you’ve worked for quite a number of companies, you’d know which kinds of office set-up works for you and which are those that don’t.
Aside from what you can see in your home office, another thing you need to consider in removing all possible distractions is the noise and other sound distractions which you would be able to hear once you start working in your home office. If at all possible, line your home office with sound insulation materials such as cork boards on the ceiling and around the walls of your home office.
If your work entails exerting your creativity, then you also need to think of setting up your spot in such a way it would help you concentrate when you have to, pull away when you need to see the big picture, and unleash your creativity whenever you think you’re facing an unsolvable problem.

3. Productivity And Connectivity

Another thing you have to take into account when sync your home Office is how your office will enable and help you increase your productivity and connectivity.

One of the first few things on your checklist for productivity is a flat surface or desk. It doesn’t have to be a very large desk. Choose a desk that’s wide enough for you to do the work you have to do, with ample space for your usual clutter when you’re at work.
You need internet connectivity which is enough for your work requirements. If your work entails a lot of video presentations or video conferencing, remember that these things usually take up a lot of bandwidth when you go online. So, make sure your internet connectivity is good enough for what you need to do most of the time.
Part of being productive comes from having the right equipment and devices for what you need to do and being comfortable enough to be able to focus on your tasks without feeling drowsy or sleepy. If your work entails a lot of video conferencing, then maybe it’s time to invest in external cameras if you’re using desktop computers and a good headset if you take a lot of phone calls.

Bringing Your Office Home

As many companies have realized the immense potential of allowing their employees to work from home, more office workers are being placed on work-from-home mode. This may become more standard way companies decide to have employees work.

If you are looking for an office that your employees can sync to from home, contact us. Our local reps can help you, at no cost to you, find the right space at the best price and avoid costly mistakes. Give us a try! No obligation.

Simplest Ways to Become Productive at Work

Most employees or business owners want to become more productive at work. High productivity translates to positive business results, increased profitability, and employee motivation. Productive employees are efficient, and they understand the significance of maintaining a work-life balance.

Though most people want to be industrious, they can’t resist distractions in the office. Even with urgent deadlines, unproductive employees still procrastinate and submit incomplete reports. But how do you cultivate a productive habit? It takes more than working for a promotion or impressing your manager. Below are top tips to help you become more productive as an employee or business owner:

● Get Organized

Organizing your workstation is the first step to becoming a productive worker. You may think you’re a performer, but your desk is full of unnecessary paperwork, pens, staple pins, and other office items. Although you complete your work assignments, you may not be an organized person. Make sure your desk is neat and all your computer files are in order. Getting organized is a critical skill that improves productivity levels.

You can locate essential files within a short time frame and beat deadlines with ease. Working in a neat and organized station helps you concentrate and boost your moods, resulting in motivation and increased productivity.

● Avoid Distractions

Minimizing distractions during work hours enables you to increase efficiency and finish tasks on time. Attending unnecessary meetings, gossiping with colleagues, and spending time on social media are some of the distractions that can prevent you from attaining productivity. These distractions affect your concentration, and you will eventually lose focus on what you were working on. Also, ensure you perform one task at a time.

● Don’t Multitask

Although most people think that multitasking translates to more work done, it is also a distraction. Working on numerous tasks at once means that you will concentrate on one and neglect others. Or you will perform shoddy work without cross-checking for errors. Therefore, it’s best to finish one task at a time to increase efficiency and productivity.

● Prioritize Your Work

Prioritizing your tasks is a critical aspect that determines whether you are a productive employee or not. You might submit incomplete assignments if you don’t plan your work according to urgency. Thus, prioritize your workload to avoid getting overwhelmed. Creating to-do lists every day is one way to plan your tasks. Break down complicated assignments into doable tasks and place them according to urgency. After ranking your work, make sure you finish them on time. Prioritizing your work increases productivity.

● Learn New Skills

Productive employees do not sit and wait for projects, especially if they require consequential processes in different stages. You need to learn what other employees are doing to accomplish various tasks. Thus, learn new skills when you can; you never know when they might come in handy. Learning is part of becoming a productive worker because you enhance your skills and focus on practical solutions. Use online resources, such as YouTube, and podcasts, to learn new skills and enhance workplace productivity.

● Avoid Burnout

Are you a workaholic who spends long hours in the office? Your boss may be impressed with your work, but when you experience burnout, your work efficiency reduces. Therefore, do not work until you have no energy left for the next task. Balance your workload and take breaks when necessary to avoid fatigue and extreme burnout. You don’t have to complete all the work assignments at once; delegate other projects to your junior staff or work according to urgency. Moreover, avoid carrying work at home in the evening because it will affect your work-life balance. Ask for help or take a few days off when you start losing interest in your work or experience energy loss to perform even the simplest tasks.

● Work at Your Best

Most people feel more alert and productive in the morning, while others work best at night, especially remote workers. Choose a suitable time because you will deliver more in a short time when you are fresh and mentally alert. Therefore, do not force yourself to complete work tasks when you feel demotivated. It is better to work at your best time and maximize your productive hours.

Ultimately, people are different and work within varied conditions. But if you want to become a productive worker, you must cultivate the above skills one day at a time. Consistency is key, and over time your employer will start noticing results and reward your efforts. Be the unmatched employee who gets things done immediately, no matter how big or small the task. Highly productive people are efficient, valuable, and lead fulfilling lives because they also know the significance of balancing work-life commitments.

And if you are looking for a workplace for your company where everyone can be more productive at work, let us know and we will show you how we can help you acquire your next office space.

3 Reasons Why Online Education Works Well For Employees

Take Your Business and Employees To A Whole New Level with Online Education

Developing and growing your company usually involves helping your employees grow alongside you. Which can mean giving them access to high-quality education. Today, the internet and computers have made it easy to provide the ability for everyone to have access to education no matter where you are.

Online education has become a game-changing tool for businesses and their employees. Here are three reasons why you should consider implementing Online Education with your employees.

1) Provides Your Employees With Incentive

Offering your employees the opportunity to advance their skills through free or discounted education gives them the incentive to want to do well in their position. In some cases even advance their careers. Most employees in America are unable to afford any further education and therefore will be very appreciative of the opportunity.

This education will also boost your employee’s self-esteem. They will feel needed and more equipped for their tasks going forward and will therefore result in a higher retention rate and happier employees. It is easy to find programs. As an example, a quick search at MyDegreeGuide.com will show you how easy it is to select a program suitable for your employees.

Some may worry that offering employees a way to better their skills will send them on the hunt to use those skills at a different company however, there is no data to support that statement. In fact, it’s actually the opposite. Employees are more likely to remain loyal to a company when provided with the opportunity to grow and learn for free or at a discounted rate.

2) Increases Productivity and Progress

Since the education is being offered online, the productivity and progress of your company will not be put on hold. You employees will be able to continue their work throughout the day and have time afterwards to work on their education and skills.

On average, Online Education to your staff increases productivity by at least 2%, and when the courses are specific to the company that rate increases even more. Education improves an individuals’ communication, time management, and collaboration skills which will inherently affect how well your company runs. Imagine a business full of individuals highly skilled in time management? The turnaround time would be unparalleled.

3) Increases Your Business’ Profits

If your company’s productivity is increasing it’s logical to assume that so would your profit and you are correct. Employees with a hire turnaround time as a result of proper training will bring in a revenue of up abn average of 24% more than a company that doesn’t offer their employees education.

You may be thinking about how much the cost would be to be able to offer your employees at least a discounted rate of tuition, and you’re right it will run the business a hefty amount. However, in the end, the pros outweigh the cons and you’ll be left with a stronger and healthier company. If you’re able to find the funds to do this it is highly recommended. it is a great employee benefit! Only you know what the best decision for your business and employees are, choose wisely.

And if you are looking for an office to house your well educated employees, we can help. Contact us today. Our services are free and there is no obligation. We will put you in contact with a top local tenant rep who will also help with no cost to you.

4 Ways to Become More Productive at Work

Productivity is the heart and soul of a functioning workspace. If employees are to be productive at work, it could come down to the structure and setting of the office. Not just the location, but the layout of office furniture and equipment, the flow between employee space, and the overall feeling of the office.

Fortunately, there are resources out there to help boost a business’s productivity and make an office a place where employees want to get their work done. Keep reading for four tips and some advice on how to accomplish a more productive workspace.

1. Create Opportunities for Movement

The best way to stay focused during a long day of work is to acknowledge when you’ve hit a productivity wall and to take short, quick breaks to gain a new perspective on what you’re working on. Ergonomic furniture such as stand-to-sit desks encourages changing positions and moving throughout the workday. Standing desks can improve overall mood and vigor in not only the workplace but has been shown to carry through to out of work environments. You can build other opportunities for movement into your workspace, such as putting the copy machine on the opposite end of the room and having a central water cooler. Create reasons to stand and move about.

Productivity is not directly correlated with time spent on tasks, so it’s important to make sure that you’re recalibrating and refuelling once in a while.

Ideally, you want a workspace that doesn’t confine employees to one spot and gives them the option to work in different locations, even remotely, if the business model allows for it.

2. Give Gadgets a Home

Smartphones and tablets can help you stay organized, but they can also be a big distraction and aid in time-wasting. The best way to avoid wasting time is to find a home for gadgets and leave them there.

We have so many screens competing for our attention. Consider putting them in a drawer. Try to keep them in their dedicated place while you do your work so that you won’t be distracted by a constant stream of notifications.

3. Keep Your Space Clean

If you’re sitting in a messy area thinking about how messy it is and how you should really clean it, you’re probably not getting a lot done. It makes it much more difficult to be productive at work.

Take a few minutes every day to organize your workspace. Throw out unnecessary items and maintain whatever organization system suits your style, so those extra distractions don’t build up.

In addition to cleaning or organizing your workspace every day, organize and prioritize a to-do list so that you have a clear idea of what you need to do, which have top priority and don’t waste time at the beginning of your workday trying to figure it out. At the end of the day, sit down and quickly write what you need to get done the next work day.

This helps you reflect on what you’ve accomplished during the day and how you can move forward to produce great work the next day.

4. Get Personal

Personalizing your space can increase your emotional connection to your work, but it’s important to not let the personal touches become clutter and to do this in moderation

Items that you don’t frequently use shouldn’t take up desk space. Add a productivity-boosting plant and keep a personal calendar to stay on track throughout the week.

Plants are fashionable these days and aren’t just for pretty social media photos. They serve a great benefit in the office, too. Make space feel more alive. Although not a traditional method of creating a productive workspace, their impact is not imaginary. Plants assist in creating an environment far more conducive to increased productivity, than traditional, sterile workspaces.

Having plants around the workspace helps produce cleaner air, and it motivates one to be more energetic and creative. Scientific studies have even been able to prove the positives of more greenery for the office. From reducing stress to increasing productivity and creativity, plants have been proven to improve it all.

Choose personal items that inspire you to be more productive. Keep a framed photo of your family, kids, partner, or pet on your desk. Let them be the ones that keep you motivated throughout your workday.

No one is the same. There is no single approach to office layouts, design, or functionality that suits everyone, espcially considering there are now 4 generations in the workforce. Having the flexibility to not be in the office during the entirety of the workday, having some plants and personal touches, and having a space to breath, be creative, and express oneself will make the workplace more productive, and helps everyone to be more successful.

If you are looking for the right office space to create a workplace to help employees become more productive at work, we’d love to help. It is what we do on a daily basis through out the US and Canada. Give us a try. No cost and no obligation. Let us know what you are looking for and we will get right on it.