5 Reasons Why You Should Consider a More Open Workplace
For the last ten years or so, the workplace environment has gone through a radical face lift. Cubicle walls have come down and in many cases been eliminated altogether. The coffee maker has turned into a full bistro and moved from the back room to front and center of the workplace. Break out and lounge areas once reserved for the lobby and CEO offices are now sprinkled throughout the open office area.
So why are so many employers investing all that valuable real estate and expense just to create a more open and collaborative workplace?
Because an open workspace encourages workers to engage and communicate and employers know engaged workers are happier and happier workers are much more productive. The department of economics at Warwick found that happy workers are 12 percent more productive than the average worker and unhappy workers are 10 percent less productive. All those unhappy workers cost American businesses over $300 billion each year. It pays to have happy workers.
Here are 5 more reasons you should consider a more open and collaborative workspace:
An open and inviting workplace allows workers to more freely communicate. With fewer walls and panels, it’s easier for workers to communicate and build relationships with each other. Meaningful work relationships have a great influence on worker happiness and fulfillment.
More engaged employees are also less likely to leave for another company. A study by the University of Columbia shows that the likelihood of job turnover at an organization with a positive culture are only 13.9% compared to 48.4% at companies with a negative or low culture.
Unhappy and disengaged workers can also affect your bottom line. Low-level engagement within companies results in a 33 percent decrease in operating income and 11 percent decrease in earnings growth. Companies with high-level engagement see a 19 percent increase in operating income and a 28 percent increase in earnings growth.
An open and positive workplace is also a company asset and recruiting tool. Candidates get a feel for your culture as they walk through your space.
Happier, more engaged workers also have fewer sick days. Unhappy workers take fifteen more sick days each year than the average worker.
The link between an open and engaging workplace and happier workers is clear. Shifting to a more open workplace doesn’t always mean a major investment in new furniture, either. Often, just rearranging what you already have can help you create a more open and inviting space.
If your workplace interior doesn’t fit the culture you desire, give us a call.
