Creating Your First Office for Healthy Workers
Getting to the stage in running your own business where you need to rent some office space is a fairly momentous occasion.
If you’ve got to the point where you can actually hire people and afford the overheads associated with an office, it means you’re on the right track. There are loads of things to think about when you get to this point, such as picking your space, setting up phones and internet, getting computers.
Unless you’re in a completely managed space, an important thing to think about is the design and furnishing of your shiny new office, but this is something that often gets left until the last minute.
It’s important because the office vibe and comfort levels are crucial to your staff’s motivation. In those early days of setting up an office, bringing in new people and getting your business to grow and succeed, this is really important. People spend so much of their time at work, and when they’re facing challenges you want them to be in as relaxed and positive a mindset as possible. So getting your office right from the start can really have an impact.
Everyone will tell you about the importance of good office chairs for posture and comfort. Ergonomics has taught us a lot about the way we interact with our environment and the effect it has on our well being. You need to buy quality chairs which the user can adjust to the right height. Help your staff to set themselves up for maximum comfort and good health – the top of their screen needs to be at eye level to minimise strain; offer them cushions for under their arms; if necessary provide foot rests to keep them comfortable.
Some office furniture can look quite bland and uninspiring. Depending on the vibe you are trying to create for your business you might want to liven it up or consider some more adventurous and a stylish furniture designs. For example, could you get your company logo stencilled onto desks cheaply to brighten them up? Perhaps even think about buying a cheap sofa from a second hand place or furniture market for staff to relax on during breaks or use for meetings? Office furniture doesn’t have to just be white desks and black chairs, be creative and it could have a really positive impact on your employees’ productivity.
If your office is low on windows make sure the lighting is good. Invest in some additional lamps if needs be – the last thing you want is a dark, depressing workplace.
Buy a radio. You’ll be amazed at the difference a little background noise makes to productivity. Additionally, as you’re starting out and hiring new staff it’s a great ice breaker and makes people feel more relaxed, which is important for team building.
Look for any other little ways that you can afford to give the space personality. Plants are great for creating a positive environment. Other ideas include a fish tank, pictures on the walls, or even just a pinboard which staff can put notes and photos on. It will all help, and give you more happy, healthy and productive staff.
