{"id":9472,"date":"2021-07-07T14:10:21","date_gmt":"2021-07-07T12:10:21","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/?p=9472"},"modified":"2023-02-27T02:00:00","modified_gmt":"2023-02-27T00:00:00","slug":"corporate-productivity","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/managing-teams\/corporate-productivity\/","title":{"rendered":"10+ Life-Changing Tips to Increase Office Productivity"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Stress and dissatisfaction curb productivity in the short <em>and<\/em> long run. What\u2019s more, the office environment gives these feelings an incredible uptick. As a result, people begin to see themselves as cogs in a machine \u2014 a black hole for office productivity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Likewise, deadlines and client satisfaction become the <em>only<\/em> things that matter throughout the workweek. At the same time, employees neglect their own preferences and workplace improvements.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Anyway, are people going back to the office despite the decrease in the number of registered Covid cases?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Well, the Conference Board research organization published that only 2% of CEOs in Europe and 5% in the United States <a href=\"https:\/\/www.conference-board.org\/publications\/driving-growth-and-mitigating-risk-amid-extreme-volatility\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">cited returning to the physical space<\/a> as a 2023 priority.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But, still, some employees are getting back to their office desks nonetheless (or haven\u2019t left them in the first place).&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this guide to office productivity, we explore the following manager essentials:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Why should people return to the office (or not),<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>What are the main impediments to <a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/productivity\/team-time-management\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">superb productivity<\/a>, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>How simple tips can vastly increase efficiency.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Let\u2019s get right to it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"back-to-the-office-for-increased-productivity-or-not\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Back to the office for increased productivity (or not?)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>In a 2022 study by ADP Research Institute, as many as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.adpresearch.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/PaW_Global_2022_GLB_US-310322_MA.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">64% of employees would consider switching jobs<\/a> if their employers would have them return to the office. In fact, the most reluctant category of the workforce to go back are those aged 18 to 24.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>One thing&#8217;s for sure <\/strong>\u2014<strong> <\/strong>according to the study, most employees don&#8217;t want to return to the corporate environment due to personal preferences <em>and<\/em> a drop in their office productivity. Or, at the very least, they want a <a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/business\/hybrid-work-schedule\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">hybrid work<\/a> model. In this case, employees get to work remotely on most days and go to the office occasionally.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Anyway, what is it that office workers think benefits their productivity the most? Here&#8217;s a short list:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Autonomy<\/strong> in where, how, and what they work on,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Flexibility<\/strong> to run quick errands, enjoy async communication, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Freedom<\/strong> to not overhear office chatter and the constant rough and tumble.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Apart from that, employees don\u2019t want to be on video calls 4 hours a day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>With that in mind, office work isn\u2019t all bad! A 2022 survey by the HR platform Eden proves that. According to Eden, an astounding 44% of tech workers said they <a href=\"https:\/\/www.edenworkplace.com\/blog\/where-tech-works-report\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">miss community and companionship<\/a> if they&#8217;re away from the office too long. The same report cites areas that suffer under remote work, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Mentorship,&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Collaboration, and&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Career growth.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>As with most things in life, it&#8217;s not a black-or-white issue. So, we encourage you to try different approaches and see what works for your team and you as a manager.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Now, let&#8217;s get to those office productivity tips!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"physical-space-productivity-boosters\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Physical space productivity boosters<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>A 2022 study by researchers at the University of Auckland investigated the topic of office productivity and how the corporate setup works in favor or against your bottom line. The study\u2019s scientists found that the following aspects <a href=\"https:\/\/www.researchgate.net\/publication\/366069263_Indoor_environmental_factors_affecting_the_productivity_of_workers_in_office_buildings\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">affect the productivity of workers<\/a> in office buildings:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Noise,&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Lighting,&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Temperature, and&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Air quality.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Likewise, people in the productivity arena have known for long that how you design your work environment makes all the difference.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this section, we\u2019ll outline a few productivity boosters you can implement the next time you get to your office. As a manager, you can radically increase the efficiency of your workforce if you only consider the following suggestions!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"productivity-booster-1-allow-employees-to-decorate-their-space\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Productivity booster #1: Allow employees to decorate their space<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Suppose you have an <a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/productivity\/open-office-productivity\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">open-plan office<\/a> <em>or<\/em> you have designated office spaces for different teams. In both cases, we suggest giving each employee a chance to express themselves.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Simply put, you should encourage them to personalize the space as much as they like. In turn, this helps them feel greater relaxation. But, some workers will choose not to tinker with the work setting, as it reinforces their feeling of being at an office. And yes, this is also fine!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Yet, for others, a few desk plants, photos, a pinboard, figurines, or as little as their personal mug can go a long way. In fact, these items are also great conversation starters in case you want more of those (which you may not \u2014 more on that a bit later).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Finally, decor brings some color to a person\u2019s desk. Apart from that, employees get to personalize their productive workspace, making them feel more valued, comfortable, and a vital part of the company.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"productivity-booster-2-let-in-plenty-of-natural-light\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Productivity booster #2: Let in plenty of natural light<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>When productivity authors write about ways to increase productivity in the office, they often overlook how sheer nature contributes to your well-being and efficiency.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>One study with respondents from South Korea and the United States confirmed that office <a href=\"https:\/\/www.researchgate.net\/publication\/347542179_IMPACT_OF_DAYLIGHT_EXPOSURE_ON_HEALTH_WELL-BEING_AND_SLEEP_OF_OFFICE_WORKERS_BASED_ON_ACTIGRAPHY_SURVEYS_AND_COMPUTER_SIMULATION\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">employees who worked under daylight<\/a> conditions reaped numerous benefits. Some of these include heightened well-being and better health in the study\u2019s respondents compared to employees not working under daylight.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As far as office productivity goes, remind your employees that the corporate space isn\u2019t a prison. Just letting daylight in instead of neon lights reminds them of their workday progression \u2014 and when it draws to a close.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Allowing daylight to peer through the office windows pushes them to finish things on time. In contrast, closed-off spaces <a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/managing-time\/time-perception\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">skew the perception of time<\/a>, potentially leading to more overtime and eventual burnout.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To get to the bottom of things, we asked <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/rosmy-barrios-677b5b13b\/?originalSubdomain=rs\" target=\"_blank\">Dr. Rosmy Barrios, MD<\/a>, a medical advisor for the Health Reporter, to share her take on the matter. She said that:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns pro-blockquote is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"428\" height=\"428\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Rosmy-Barrios.jpg\" alt=\"Rosmy Barrios\" class=\"wp-image-17934\" srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Rosmy-Barrios.jpg 428w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Rosmy-Barrios-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Rosmy-Barrios-150x150.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 428px) 100vw, 428px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><em>\u201cNatural light makes you feel closer to nature, channeling good feelings. In fact, a Future Workplace <\/em><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/view.com\/sites\/default\/files\/documents\/Future-Workplace-The-Employee-Experience.pdf\" target=\"_blank\"><em>survey<\/em><\/a><em> suggests most employees value outdoor views and access to natural light more than anything else in the workplace. Exposure to outdoor views allows them to get access to greenery, giving them a much-needed break from screens.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Then, we asked her about LED lighting. Somewhat expectedly, Dr. Barrios said:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns pro-blockquote is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"428\" height=\"428\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Rosmy-Barrios.jpg\" alt=\"Rosmy Barrios\" class=\"wp-image-17934\" srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Rosmy-Barrios.jpg 428w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Rosmy-Barrios-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/Rosmy-Barrios-150x150.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 428px) 100vw, 428px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"has-text-align-left\"><em>\u201cConsidering most people work at least 8 hours per day, working in LED light can cause issues such as headaches, eye strain, and increased fatigue.\u201d&nbsp;<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"productivity-booster-3-stimulate-the-senses\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Productivity booster #3: Stimulate the senses<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Before you jump to conclusions, we\u2019re not going to talk about filling the space with scented candles or oils, turning the offices into miniature jungles, or creating a Zen-like workplace. Okay, you got us \u2014 we might do some of that!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But first, it\u2019s about simple tricks and improvements that enrich the space. In turn, this <a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/managing-tasks\/productivity-vs-efficiency\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">boosts efficiency<\/a> through comfort and creates a productive office space.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To start, we\u2019ll tackle 3 things people often forget about when looking for ways to increase their office productivity:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Sight,&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sound, and&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Smell.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Let\u2019s get started with the first one!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 id=\"sight\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Sight<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>First things first \u2014 analyze the paint job on the company walls. True, there are no <em>best<\/em> colors for office productivity. And yet, some employees&#8217; attention may crumble under the effects of certain colors.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For example, one 2021 study conducted by researchers from multiple universities found that the wall type next to the seat of the workspace <a href=\"https:\/\/www.researchgate.net\/publication\/356219231_Effect_of_indoor_environmental_quality_on_visual_comfort_and_productivity_in_office_buildings\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">impacts visual comfort<\/a> and productivity of the worker.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>All that is to say that some colors can produce a warm, stimulating effect, according to a 2020 study fittingly titled <a href=\"https:\/\/www.researchgate.net\/publication\/349380203_Psychology_of_Color_and_Its_Health_Benefits_in_Office_Buildings\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><em>Psychology of Color<\/em><\/a>. This piece of research established that it&#8217;s preferable to use light or white tones for ceilings. Similarly, colors that supposedly contribute to office productivity include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Green,&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Blue,&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Beige,&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pink, and&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Yellow.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Interestingly, researchers found that it&#8217;s not only how you paint your walls \u2014 furniture colors matter, too. For instance, psychology experts who conducted the said 2020 study asserted that you need to treat each color as a surface to reflect the light (natural and otherwise) and distribute it evenly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Another useful thing to consider sight-wise is decluttering. To that effect, one 2021 study out of DePaul University in the US found that office clutter severely <a href=\"https:\/\/www.researchgate.net\/publication\/349250890_2021_IJPRR_OFFICE_CLUTTER_Ferrari_Swanson_Patel\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">impacts the job satisfaction levels<\/a> of onsite workers.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The study reports that a cluttered office or desk can <a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/productivity\/career-burnout\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">lead to burnout<\/a> more quickly. By \u201cclutter,\u201d the researchers meant things like:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Paper,&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Office supplies,&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Used mugs, and&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Everything else in between.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>To improve office efficiency even more, rearrange the space if needed \u2014 move around shelves, printers, and even desks if they\u2019re in the way. The same goes for any wall decor. Clutter is both distracting and overwhelming.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group pro-tip\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p>\ud83d\udca1 <strong>Clockify Pro Tip<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Clutter, including the digital type, can seriously impact your productivity. Learn more in our blog post:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/managing-time\/digital-declutter\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">How to declutter your digital space<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 id=\"sound\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Sound<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Open-plan offices can be a huge detractor when it comes to office productivity.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Curiously, a 2021 research paper on open-plan office noise found that abrupt office sounds, including ringing tones, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cambridge.org\/core\/journals\/journal-of-management-and-organization\/article\/abs\/openplan-office-noise-is-stressful-multimodal-stress-detection-in-a-simulated-work-environment\/F3EF8D2DF47767F18CBF5C081D6AB3A0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">pull your attention away<\/a> from the task at hand. In turn, the researchers argue, this leads to lapses in performance in all assignments that require concentrated attention during the day.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Apart from that, the study found that coworker chatter or overhead phone calls produce the most disturbing form of noise in the open-plan office.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>From our experience, there\u2019s nothing worse than a noisy environment. Yes, even when people are trying to work quietly! After a while, those expensive noise-canceling headphones aren\u2019t helping because your ears start hurting due to overuse.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As a remedy, designate spaces for verbal discussions. This discourages desk visits from one coworker to another. Thus, everyone can focus on their work. At the same time, employees can have discussions and brainstorming sessions outside of their work stations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But to get the biggest benefits for your workforce, give teams that need the most focus separate offices or more quiet spaces of the open plan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group pro-tip\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p>\ud83d\udca1 <strong>Clockify Pro Tip<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Dive deeper into how to deal with noisy environments and other distractions in our blog post:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/productivity\/workplace-distractions\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">The most common workplace distractions and tips on how to tackle them<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 id=\"smell-air\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Smell\/Air<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Many employers tend to neglect that smells play a role in the well-being and <a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/productivity\/managing-emotions-at-work\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">mood of their workforce<\/a>. However, a growing body of research implies a potentially positive impact of pleasant ambient scents on emotional, social, and cognitive well-being.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For illustration, one 2020 article that reviewed the relevant data talks about making your employees <a href=\"https:\/\/misuse.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/error\/abuse.shtml?orig_args=\/pmc\/articles\/PMC7710513\/&amp;orig_host=www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">more alert and productive during the workday<\/a>. In a nutshell, the author lists scents associated with:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Herbs,&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Flowers,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Spices, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Other plants.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>In the same fashion, the above 2020 review article suggests these scents help workers relax and sleep better after work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Surprisingly, however, the exact effects of each scent <a href=\"https:\/\/link.springer.com\/article\/10.1007\/s13280-022-01760-w\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">differ depending on the sociocultural context of smell<\/a>, as one 2022 research article found.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The latter study\u2019s anthropologists and other scientists involved in the research explain that an individual\u2019s language \u2014 as well as their historical and <a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/managing-teams\/cultural-and-language-barriers-at-work\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">cultural backgrounds<\/a> \u2014 often inform the person\u2019s unique experiences scent-wise. Simply put, what works for Germany\u2019s labor force may not work so well for Indian office employees.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Apart from that, air fresheners aren\u2019t a must since many people find their scents too strong or invasive. What\u2019s important here is also fairly simple \u2014 invest in quality air conditioning and ventilation.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Expectedly, lack of clean air <a href=\"https:\/\/www.safework.nsw.gov.au\/hazards-a-z\/ventilation-at-work\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">leads to drowsiness<\/a> and lowering of blood pressure. In turn, this speeds up fatigue during work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group pro-tip\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p>\ud83d\udca1 <strong>Clockify Pro Tip<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Need even more ways to skyrocket the productivity of your workforce? Get in-depth advice in this article:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/productivity\/increase-employee-productivity\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">8 fast ways to increase employee productivity in the workplace<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"tips-to-regain-office-productivity\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tips to regain office productivity<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>To avoid productivity falling by the wayside, managers need to urgently motivate their staff by creating a satisfying, positive workplace.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Aside from keeping the office an overall friendly space to work in, other factors also contribute to \u2014 or detract from \u2014 people\u2019s productivity. These can range from <a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/business\/workforce-management\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">how you manage the staff<\/a> to the types of tools you use.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To improve your office day, let\u2019s look at some powerful tips to maintain office productivity!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group pro-tip\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p>\ud83d\udca1 <strong>Clockify Pro Tip<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Stuck with multiple tasks and lacking in self-discipline? Read our blog post to find out how to be more disciplined:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/managing-time\/disciplined-at-work\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">How to be disciplined at work<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"tip-1-choose-the-perfect-software\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tip #1: Choose the perfect software&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Depending on your industry, you probably use all kinds of applications and programs. Usually, the most basic ones people need include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/productivity-tracker\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Time trackers<\/a>,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Project management tools,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Image processing software, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cloud-based services.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>So, how can you harness the power of these tools to boost office productivity?&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Well, you start by making some well-thought-out choices. Namely, you find software that is easy to pick up and use \u2014 but also provides the features that employees need in their everyday work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Equally important, your software should attune to you, not the other way around. Finally, it would be wise to launch a learning program to help the less tech-savvy employees get on board.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group pro-tip\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p>\ud83d\udca1 <strong>Clockify Pro Tip<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To make the best use of productivity tools, give this guide a quick read:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/managing-time\/productivity-resources\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Top productivity resources on the Internet<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"tip-2-use-brainstorming-sessions\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tip #2: Use brainstorming sessions&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Corporate environments are known to quickly slip into \u201cgrind mode.\u201d Everyone needs to come and do their work to meet the deadline. As a result, communication degrades to team chat messages, emails, and one-sided meetings that go on for hours.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But sometimes, people just need to slow down and make their daily interactions more <em>human<\/em> and <em>humane<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In other words, boosting large office productivity means <a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/business\/create-transparent-accountable-team\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">engaging teams<\/a> into working person-to-person. Here\u2019s how it can happen:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Firstly, find out what parts of work can be done via <a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/managing-tasks\/brainstorming-techniques\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">brainstorming sessions<\/a>, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Secondly, ensure there are enough empty offices \u2014 or other rooms \u2014 to facilitate that.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>You can <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/learn\/communication\/communication-barriers\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">prevent a lot of miscommunication<\/a> and speed up the process by implementing these two tactics. At the same time, you boost motivation by encouraging people to work together more often.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Additionally, if you have corporate-wide meetings (or emails), openly praise or thank teams that use this joint-work method. It serves as a good example for others and an extra positive push in that direction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can also lead by example \u2014&nbsp;and have meetings and brainstorming sessions in the same offices.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group pro-tip\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p>\ud83d\udca1 <strong>Clockify Pro Tip<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Want to learn more about how to create positive vibes in the office? Read our blog post on this exciting topic:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/managing-teams\/team-connectivity\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">How good team connectivity works<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"tip-3-conduct-regular-check-ins\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tip #3: Conduct regular check-ins<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>When your workforce counts dozens, if not hundreds of employees, it\u2019s crucial to keep a regular \u201cpulse check\u201d on their satisfaction at the office.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Maybe they\u2019re unhappy with their <a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/managing-time\/johari-window\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">career progression<\/a>, experience struggles with the workload, or have issues with other employees. And all of this is another factor that <a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/productivity-statistics\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">affects productivity<\/a> in large and mid-size companies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Sadly, most people will avoid coming forward about their gripes. They even let them fester until it causes them to take days off work or succumb to energy depletion. In turn, their health suffers greatly and so does their office productivity. So, approaching them first helps a lot \u2014 it\u2019s a step towards improving efficiency and health.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To institute regular check-ins in your policies, here are some starting points:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Introduce bimonthly or monthly anonymous surveys with generalized questions about employee satisfaction.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Plan out 1:1 sessions for a more personal approach \u2014 let people voice their opinions, but don\u2019t force them to, as some have a hard time opening up.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Organize educational meetings and trainings on burnout and assertiveness \u2014 treat it as a public forum to drive the conversation forward.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>The more you help people understand and be open about the issues they have, the less energy they spend worrying over their work issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"tip-4-give-meaningful-in-depth-feedback\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tip #4: Give meaningful, in-depth feedback<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Besides regular check-ins, your employees need deeper connections to feel heard and appreciated. Well, go figure, right?!&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Humor aside, a 2022 Gallup research found that <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gallup.com\/workplace\/349484\/state-of-the-global-workplace-2022-report.aspx\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">workforce stress is worryingly prevalent<\/a>. In fact, employees in Canada and the US were among the most stressed workers worldwide.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Luckily, the above Gallup research suggests that regular conversations with employees on personal and professional development can help improve employee engagement long-term.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But to provide in-depth feedback via regular conversations, you first need to learn how to <a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/business\/track-employee-performance\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">track employee performance<\/a>. Enter performance reports.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Along with the help of team leads and HR, you can use performance reports to get a good snapshot of how each department works. Apart from that, you can find out which employees need additional learning, more challenges, and the like.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Performance reports also allow you to accurately set performance standards and manage your expectations on future projects.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group pro-tip\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p>\ud83d\udca1 <strong>Clockify Pro Tip<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When all team members are in perfect sync task-wise, team collaboration flows seamlessly. Learn more here:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/business\/team-collaboration\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Team collaboration: why it\u2019s important and how to foster it<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"tip-5-encourage-transparency\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tip #5: Encourage transparency<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Act like you didn\u2019t see this one coming: <em>Timesheets that list who is working on what.<\/em>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But seriously, timesheets provide a shortcut by making it clear when some coworkers can contact their teammates. Above all, this eliminates the need for updates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For example, in Clockify by <a href=\"https:\/\/cake.com\">CAKE.com<\/a>, you can enable employees to view the collective timesheet and stay aware of what their coworkers are up to.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1119\" height=\"282\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/dashboard-on-Clockify.png\" alt=\"Dashboard Clockify\" class=\"wp-image-17935\" srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/dashboard-on-Clockify.png 1119w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/dashboard-on-Clockify-300x76.png 300w, https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/dashboard-on-Clockify-768x194.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1119px) 100vw, 1119px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>A dashboard with team members\u2019 tracked time in Clockify<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>From this, we can see that Katie is currently working on bug fixing. Since we know she needs <a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/productivity\/stay-focused-at-work\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">extra focus,<\/a> we can contact her in an hour or so. On the other hand, John completed a time audit. This means we can hear how it went as we can see it\u2019s no longer marked as <em>In progress<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Overall, timesheets are a great way to establish mutual respect for work hours. What\u2019s more, people will <a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/productivity\/identify-wasted-time-and-inefficiency\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">waste less time<\/a> waiting on a response from someone and opt to work on a different task.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n<div class=\"banner banner-dark clockify-gradient-landing-4\">\n    <div class=\"banner-text lg:pr-[6rem]\">\n        <span class=\"h4 text-lg translation-block mb-0\">Free time tracker<\/span>\n        <p class=\"translation-block mt-1 mb-3\">Time tracking software used by millions. Clockify is a time tracker and timesheet app that lets you track work hours across projects.<\/p>\n\n        <div class=\"banner-buttons d-flex gap-4 align-items-center translation-block justify-content-center justify-content-sm-start\">\n            <a class=\"bg-white rounded px-3 py-1 text-gray-dark\" href=\"https:\/\/app.clockify.me\/en\/signup\" target=\"_blank\">Sign up<\/a>\n\n                            <a class=\"button-2\" href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/apps\" target=\"_blank\">Learn more<\/a>\n                    <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"banner-image banner-image-middle \">\n        <picture>\n            <source srcset=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-blog\/theme\/images\/banners\/clockify\/landing-4@2x.png 2x\" alt=\"Illustration\"  media=\"(min-width: 1022px)\" \/>\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-blog\/theme\/images\/banners\/clockify\/landing-4.png\"  alt=\"Illustration\" \/>\n        <\/picture>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n    \n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"tip-6-ditch-micromanaging\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tip #6: Ditch micromanaging&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you need more office efficiency ideas, there&#8217;s always one you can abandon to instantly create a more productive environment. We\u2019re speaking about the annoying practice of <em>micromanagement<\/em>. It only serves to frustrate employees and make them trust their higher-ups much less.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Unsurprisingly, the harmful <a href=\"https:\/\/www.researchgate.net\/publication\/365128589_Detrimental_Implication_of_Micromanagement\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">implications of micromanagement<\/a> include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Reducing employee office productivity,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Impacting retention of the workforce, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Decreasing job satisfaction among workers.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>As a remedy, work on keeping a loose reign on what goes on at any moment. Delegate whatever you can to those directly under your supervision. Yet, also ask them not to hover over everyone\u2019s shoulder. Apart from that, here are other things you can do:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Hold fewer meetings!<\/strong> Filter out the unimportant ones and limit them to once a week or even once a month for updates.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Don\u2019t be a chat or email spammer! <\/strong>You probably don\u2019t like it either, so why make everyone\u2019s life more difficult than it needs to be?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Avoid contacting employees outside work hours!<\/strong> And try to relax on <a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/tracking-time\/personal-timekeeping\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">your own time<\/a> as much as you can. Remember that others have different workloads and they aren\u2019t available 24\/7. A well-rested employee is a productive one.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Learn to trust others\u2019 judgment! <\/strong>You don\u2019t have to be the smartest person in the room, nor the individual with the best solution.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>In other words, give up some of that control, brainstorm solutions with others, and leave the decision-making to yourself. That way, you include others in important matters and build their trust. But also, you lift some of the weight off your shoulders.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group pro-tip\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p>\ud83d\udca1 <strong>Clockify Pro Tip<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Time tracking isn&#8217;t the same as micromanagement. Learn more about distinguishing the two here:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/business\/explain-time-tracking\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">How to explain the need for time tracking to your team<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"tip-7-provide-conditions-for-career-improvement\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tip #7: Provide conditions for career improvement<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>One of the <a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/managing-time\/overcome-analysis-paralysis\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">biggest productivity killers<\/a> is the sense you lack progression. That you\u2019re standing in place while everyone around you is moving forward. Especially at work, this contributes to greater unhappiness.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But don&#8217;t take our word for it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A 2022 report by McKinsey suggests that the same number of employees are <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mckinsey.com\/capabilities\/people-and-organizational-performance\/our-insights\/the-great-attrition-is-making-hiring-harder-are-you-searching-the-right-talent-pools\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">still unhappy with their jobs<\/a> as in 2021. In fact, most of them are looking for new work opportunities at the same time. Interestingly, the report found that the main reason for leaving their jobs is the lack of opportunity to progress in their career.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Out of the study&#8217;s 12,000 respondents from the UK, US, Canada, India, Singapore, and Australia, researchers found that most would enjoy their work vastly more if they had:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Career advancement opportunities,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Flexible hours,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hybrid work, and other perks.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>To top it off, LinkedIn\u2019s Workplace Confidence Survey arrived at similar conclusions. For example, they found that 40% of Gen Z workers <a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/pulse\/more-important-than-money-8-goals-tempt-us-take-pay-cuts-anders\/?src=aff-lilpar&amp;veh=aff_src.aff-lilpar_c.partners_pkw.10078_plc.Skimbit%20Ltd._pcrid.inc.com_learning&amp;trk=aff_src.aff-lilpar_c.partners_pkw.10078_plc.Skimbit%20Ltd._pcrid.inc.com_learning&amp;clickid=3BwxUQ3CJxyLWImwUx0Mo36ZUkGSMzSdRR842c0&amp;mcid=6851962469594763264&amp;irgwc=1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">stated they would accept a 5% pay cut<\/a> if somebody offered them a job with substantial career growth opportunities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>So, it would be in your and your company\u2019s best interest to arrange some career improvement options, like:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Conferences,&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Online courses,&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>In-office education, etc.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>See to it that each grants some kind of certificate afterward \u2014 employees can put these in their CV. Not only is it a great motivator, but physical proof of another skill they\u2019ve gained or perfected.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group pro-tip\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p>\ud83d\udca1 <strong>Clockify Pro Tip<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Interested in enhancing office productivity even more? You&#8217;ll be happy to hear we got you covered with this blog post:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/managing-tasks\/be-better-at-your-job\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">How to improve in your job<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"summing-up-office-productivity-is-all-about-physical-setup-and-meaningful-connections\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Summing up: Office productivity is all about physical setup and meaningful connections&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Drops in productivity cost a lot, we know that. And we also know that it\u2019s a sneaky thing that creeps into an office from multiple sides. Therefore, it\u2019s vital to find out where your workforce productivity sinks and address it in time.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As we explained in this article, you can always find more ways to upgrade your office productivity. However, suppose you use at least a few of the office tips for efficiency we laid out for you here. In this case, you\u2019ll skyrocket your productivity and improve the bottom line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To conclude, we touched on the following changes that make a tremendous impact:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Sight, sound, and smell,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Software choice,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Regular check-ins,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Meaningful feedback, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Career growth!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>A lack <em>or<\/em> poor implementation of these can cause a decrease in output. On the other side, miscommunication and micromanagement can create their own category of suffering for employees.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When you improve little by little on each of these fronts, you are bound to see some big changes over time. You\u2019re welcome!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"custom-btn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/app.clockify.me\/en\/signup\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Get started with Clockify<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Workplace distractions, stress, and poor performance are everywhere. Read this guide with life-changing tips to increase office productivity now!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":39,"featured_media":17937,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[19],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-9472","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-managing-teams"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/9472","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/39"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=9472"}],"version-history":[{"count":38,"href":"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/9472\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":37189,"href":"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/9472\/revisions\/37189"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/17937"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=9472"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=9472"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=9472"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}