Out of clutter, fInd simplicity. From discord, find harmony. In the middle of difficulty, lies opportunity.
-Albert Einstein
ARE YOUR EMPLOYEES STRESSED AND OVERWHELMED?
Do you walk around the office and see piles of papers, empty take-out containers from late nights, and old coffee cups? The occasional crisis has, for many, become the daily norm. Each day there is another 'fire drill.'
As an HR professional, manager, or Managing Director, you feel responsible. Perhaps you're wondering if there is anything you can do to change the situation. Employees feeling stressed and on edge creates a poor work environment. It also has a negative impact on productivity and results. You certainly don't want to risk valuable employees leaving to find a better office culture.
How did Einstein have so much insight (quote above) even before the digital age created an expectation of immediate response and instant gratification?
WHAT CAN YOU DO?
HERE ARE 3 WAYS TO IMPROVE YOUR WORK ENVIRONMENT
1. DE-CLUTTER
2. BUILD TEAM
3. BRAINSTORM
1. DE-CLUTTER
Those who have a lot of piles will point to the research that claims people with messy offices and desks are more creative. This might be true, but if you are not in a creative role - stop kidding yourself and clean up!
If it's too overwhelming, pick a small section each day and dedicate 30-45 minutes to sorting and filing. Even the worst office will be in control within a week or two.
More importantly, create a system to maintain order going forward. Like with children, you can't expect employees to do what you won't; try to set a good example.
2. BUILD TEAM
When there is discord in a group, it may be an indication that you are past due for a team building exercise or offsite. We often put this off because we never feel the time is 'just right.'
No budget? Try a fun, short, team building exercise before each staff meeting.
Be creative and get personal. More than anything else, people want to be acknowledged and appreciated. Need some fresh new ideas? CLICK HERE
3. BRAINSTORM
When faced with a difficult situation, teams often step up to the challenge, working long hours to get the job done. In the aftermath, we sometimes forget to debrief.
Where there are unexpected challenges, there are opportunities. Take the time to brainstorm with your group to discover how the crisis might have been averted and how your team can be more prepared should a similar situation arise in the future.
WHAT OTHER SUGGESTIONS DO YOU HAVE FOR IMPROVING YOUR WORK ENVIRONMENT?
Hi, I'm Sharon Danzger and I founded Control Chaos in 2006. As a productivity consultant, I provide group training and individual coaching.
My diverse background in financial services, non-profits, and small business enables me to offer a unique perspective on finding efficiency and balance. I tailor my approach to be industry specific and culturally focused based on my actual work and client experience.
I spent the early part of my career in financial services working for The Prudential Insurance Company of America. I spent time in a variety of areas including commercial real estate, underwriting, corporate social responsibility, and group insurance.
My work with non-profits has ranged from leadership development, governance, and training to financial analysis and oversight of an $18 MM budget.
I hold a BS in Economics from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania and an MS in Real Estate from New York University. I am also a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC) and a Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU).
I have earned a Certificate of Study in Chronic Disorganization from the Institute for Challenging Disorganization (ICD). Recently I completed Monash University's "Mindfulness for Wellbeing and Peak Performance," University of Virginia Darden School's "Fundamentals of Project Planning and Management," University of Pennsylvania Wharton School's "Contagious," and University of Michigan's "Inspiring and Motivating Individuals." I am a lifelong learner and am always looking for ways to learn and grow.