news
Creative offices often provide areas for brainstorming and impromptu meetings
Other interesting findings include:
■■ Nearly half of employees would make a trade-off in perks,
hours or pay at their current job to work outside of the
traditional office setting
■■ Two in 10 employees would take a new job opportunity if they
were offered the ability to work remotely for two days a week
while 18 per cent would work longer hours for the chance to
work away from the traditional office setting
■■ Working professionals cite saving money on travel to work (59
per cent), more balance in life (55 per cent) and more time to
spend with family (45 per cent) as the top benefits employees
would value the most from having greater mobility at work.
EXECS AND WORKERS DIFFER ON IDEAL WORK
ENVIRONMENT FOR CREATIVITY
What kind of office setting sparks the most creativity? According
to research by staffing firm The Creative Group, managers and
employees don’t see eye to eye. When asked what the ideal work
environment is for on-the-job innovation, the top response among
advertising and marketing executives was an open-concept space.
Employees, however, seem to prefer more alone time, with a private
office being the most popular option.
bikeriderlondon/Shutterstock.com
“Highly effective workplaces reflect the type of work being
done, as well as the work styles of the people who occupy them,”
said Deborah Bottineau, senior regional manager of The Creative
Group. “Office managers should be cognizant of employees’ preferences
and try to find an office design that caters to both the
needs of the business and their staff. Being accommodating and
flexible with layout options can result in happier, more productive
and creative employees.”
The Creative Group offers four ideas for creating a more stimulating
work environment:
1. Construct creativity zones. Designate a few areas in the office
for brainstorming and impromptu meetings. Stock each space
with industry publications and an easel pad to jot down ideas.
2. Offer private sanctuaries. While open floor plans can increase
collaboration among employees, some projects require greater
focus and concentration. Provide stations where individuals
can work in solitude without distraction.
3. Build a mood board. Encourage team members to post
content they find intriguing to a common wall where others
can draw inspiration. Also invite staff to take photos of
anything they might want to reference for future projects.
4. Think outside the office. Hold team meetings in a nearby
park, courtyard or café. A change of scenery is sometimes all it
takes to spark the imagination. n
16 ❚ OCTOBER 2016 ❚ HR PROFESSIONAL