With an increased debate on whether or not returning to the office is beneficial, there are ways to foster a healthy return. Let’s look at some of the best ways to maintain a collaborative workspace. Creating an environment that speaks to your employees can help them feel productive in their workday and, in turn, benefit the business.
Allow Adequate Space
Outside of individual workspaces, creating and allowing adequate space for collaboration is essential. Consider seating areas in common walkways, allowing for easy breaks or moments to chat with a coworker. Additionally, ensure the conference room is a productive space that allows for brainstorming and creativity to flow.
Offer Encouragement and Rewards
Always come from a place of encouragement to guide your staff toward their successes. Incentives might be a given, but they are often lackluster at best. Adjust these incentives and rewards to what your employees enjoy outside of work, which can help promote a work-life balance.
Encourage Cross-Department Brainstorming
It’s easy to fall into a rut of sticking to your department and the daily work shuffle. But when you open the door for cross-department brainstorming, you allow your team to work cohesively. The overall cohesion of your team will contribute significantly to things like company culture, growth, and healthy work environments.
Establish a Judgment-Free Culture
One of the best ways to maintain a collaborative workspace is to establish a judgment-free culture. In a space where criticism is higher than constructive behaviors, the collaboration process will suffer.
Cultivate Transparency
Cultivating a transparent workplace will contribute significantly to cross-department communication and creating a judgment-free space. When employees are safe to ask questions, raise concerns, and relay information promptly, the overall communication will improve and remain transparent.
Whether your employees return to the office or remain remote, the collaboration never stops. Every business and industry requires unique pivoting as the consumer’s demands evolve. As long as you create an employee-centered mindset, your staff can flourish in any setting!
