Australians spend 8+ hours a day in the office every work day, so even even the smallest bit of personal input can translate to huge improvements for staff. The level of staff involvement in decision making can affect the productivity and commitment levels of staff affected, so it’s important you consult your staff when considering change.
Whilst leaving every decision up to consensus wouldn’t be wise, here are a few recommendations you could use in your upcoming office redesign.
1. Selection of Furniture: While these choices are often based on budget, there should be some flexibility with regard to personal preference and comfort. This will only benefit the organisations.
2. Get ideas flowing: Create an environment that encourages employees to share their thoughts and opinions about the change. Two minds are better than one, it’s possible they may have an idea or point that you haven’t considered.
3. Reinforce the need for change: It’s been proven that humans are often reluctant to change. If you reinforce why a change is necessary and how it can positively affect the individual and business, they will be more at ease and open to the change.
4. Keep Employees Posted: Employees who are given regular updates about what’s happening in the office are more confident in their work, interested in workplace development and tend to get higher levels of enjoyment.
5. Get Feedback: Once the office redesign is complete, measure the response of your staff. Are they happy with the change? Can you do anything to improve?