Distractions in the workplace are inevitable. After all, it’s unreasonable to expect anyone to sustain a high level of focus on any subject for eight hours in a row. Yet, there’s a difference between the odd, fleeting lapse in concentration and a habitual problem. If you’ve struggled to produce your best work on a personal level recently –– or if you’re trying to motivate your team to reach new heights –– then make sure to consider these four under-the-radar factors that nevertheless can have a big impact on business productivity. Addressing just one of these issues could prove massively beneficial:
Aromas
Believe it or not, your nose could hold the key to improved productivity. Research suggests that certain scents (like lemon) help workers pay attention and stay sharp throughout the day. Conversely, noxious odors –– like those emanating from a neglected bathroom, for instance –– can rattle even the most dedicated professional.
Lack of Tech Amenities
In one sense, you can’t miss what you’ve never had. Yet, it’s unreasonable to ask professionals at a company lacking in tech upgrades to match the output of employees working at a tech-savvy business. Just because a system has functioned well enough for a few years, doesn’t mean it’s currently fit for purpose. Entrepreneurs shouldn’t wait until they fall behind competitors to take action; rather, investing in the right tech tools – whether that be an IV therapist emr software solution for your wellness clinic; new, simplified payment processing tools to improve client engagement; or payroll software that streamlines your monthly accounting processes – proactively will help keep your team stay on top.
Office Design
How an office looks will either galvanize or demoralize staff members. As such, it’s imperative for business owners to build a workspace that conforms to their company’s specific needs and culture. Note here that office design won’t just affect current employee performance, but it will also influence a business’s ability to draw in new talent. You may want to consider reaching out to a professional design company like Key Interiors if you’re ready for a workspace renovation.
Lack of Vision & Purpose
Experts realize that modern employees are willing to go the extra mile and labor for long hours –– provided they believe their actions are meaningful. It’s important for business owners to hammer home not just what a company wants to achieve, but why it exists in the first place. It’s no surprise that most of us want to make a difference through our professions, and money shouldn’t be the end-all, be-all of every business venture. On the flip side, if you’re currently employed in an industry that doesn’t provide a clear vision for the future that you can identify with, it may be time to think about switching careers.
The Bottom Line
Productivity is a difficult thing to gauge precisely. From time to time, everyone suffers from a dip in performance for one reason or another. In many instances, a little support and a helping hand can go a long way toward rebuilding confidence. Be willing to reach out to others when they need you, because one day soon, the shoe could be on the other foot!