Creating a good working environment is not just a case of making sure your staff have a proper desk or a reliable broadband connection \u2013 it is about making it as easy as possible for them to do a good job.<\/span><\/p>\n Before the pandemic, many people were spending almost as much time at work (and travelling to and from work) as they did in their homes, at least during the week. Those with the option of working remotely often found it hard to be productive because of interruptions from family members or uncomfortable surroundings.<\/span><\/p>\n Many of the elements of an efficient working space have not changed since the start of the coronavirus pandemic, but lockdown has served as a reminder of the importance of the physical work environment.<\/span><\/p>\n Whether it\u2019s at home or in the office, the working space needs to be clean, functional and practical. Make it an appealing space and employees will want to spend more time there.<\/span><\/p>\n This may be difficult for those staff who have viewed home working as a temporary solution and don\u2019t plan to continue working from home when all restrictions have been lifted, but if you are planning on making flexible working a permanent fixture, you and your employees need to take a longer term view of their working arrangements.<\/span><\/p>\n Room in the garden for a home office will be beyond the reach of many, but basic interior design principles and a small amount spent on ergonomic furniture can improve even the smallest space.<\/span><\/p>\n The next area to look at is people. Managers need to have the skills and ability to lead and motivate those below them, but an aspect that often gets overlooked is their day-to-day behaviour towards their colleagues. You can have the best managers in the world, but if there is infighting, jealousy or resentment within their teams your business will suffer.<\/span><\/p>\nTidy desk, tidy mind<\/h3>\n
A people business<\/h3>\n