Posted 5 years ago - by Payroll Systems

3 Ways to Increase Productivity at Work

Working in an office setting isn’t always as enjoyable as it looks on the hit TV show, “The Office.” That dreaded afternoon feeling of exhaustion and stress kicks in and your motivation quickly dwindles to nothing. In reality, stress and work-overload decrease productivity by over 60%. Here are 3 helpful tips to keep you and your colleagues sharp in the workplace:

1. Positivity. While it may seem like an unimportant factor, positivity plays a vital role in productivity. According to Forbes.com, employees that increased optimism directly increased sales by 37% in comparison to a pessimist. Having an uplifting personality can also improve the emotional state of your colleagues as well.

What if you have a bad day? What if you accidentally hit your car against the underground parking lot structural pole? Well, the practice “fake it ’til you make it” will work in your favor. Smiling has significant positive effects on the human body. Not only is it an inexpensive activity, but it releases a biochemical called endorphins which in turn makes you a more gleeful individual and reduces some anxiety from your day-to-day tasks. Smiling also has a contagious effect and will most likely improve the productivity of your coworkers in the office.

2. Social activities. Even though work is typically the highlight of everyone’s day, having an event after the office grind can give your employees something to work towards. Whether it’s going to the local watering hole on a Friday afternoon with your colleagues or placing bets on that lucky horse at the races on a Saturday morning; having a rewarding event after and outside of work can give everyone something to look forward to.

While it is important to take into consideration activities employees will enjoy. Some activity ideas are: a scavenger hunt around the city, room escape games, or going to a sports game together. These activities engage the competitive side of the individual and can help team bonding within.

3. Plantlife. Although we can’t typically bring our pets to work, having plants in the office has multiple positive side effects on productivity and the health of the office. In a study done by the Exeter University, researchers found a 15% increase in productivity in the workplace. Think of it as a speed boost, but you’re at work. Best of all, it never ends. Other side effects include a significant decrease in illness and fatigue all while producing cleaner air for the office space. Just don’t forget to keep your new green friend alive.

It is important to know that not all plants are good for the office. Small plants on an employee’s desk such as an aloe vera, the spider plant, and peace lilies are good air purifying plants. You can also place plants or a small tree around the office.  Some examples of indoor office trees are the Parlor Palm, Ficus, and the Yucca. Many of these plants show different signs of discomfort if the environment is not suitable, so some minor research on the plant of your choice is recommended.

With these tips in motion, you will most likely find:

• An increase in productivity
• Improved employee relations
• Reduced stress and illness around the office

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This article provides general information and shouldn’t be construed as legal or HR advice. Since employment laws may change over time and can vary by location and industry, please consult a lawyer or HR expert for advice specific to your business. You can also contact Payroll Systems to inquire about our HR support services.