While more and more companies emit a “return to work” mandate, insisting that their hybrid work staff returns more regularly to the office, it may be useful to check whether they will bring improvements to the productivity that companies hope.
The offices across the country are becoming more and more congested. Many companies have reduced their real estate during COVID – and are now bringing employees on site. The result, according to experts, is likely to be packaged offices, noisy environments and increasing frustration because restricted areas can cause distraction, disengagement and hidden costs.
Experts now warn employers that everyone bringing in the office requires meticulous planning – and if companies do not deal with overcrowding, they risk higher turnover, professional exhaustion and the decline in productivity.
Research On overcrowding has noted that overcrowding has harmful effects on human psychology, behavior and physical health. It has also been shown to cause negative environmental assessments, psychological distress and aggression has also proven to be affecting the performance of tasks.
This tension is the place where Abigail Wright, expert in work strategy Chamberofcommerce.orgweighing.
According to Wright, “overcrowding does not only concern physical discomfort. It is exhausted in morale, undermines the concentration and leaves the workers undervalued. When people have the impression that they are only one more body in a crowded office, the drops of engagement, and it is a hidden cost company cannot afford.”
The risks of a crowded workplace
- Losses of productivity against noise and constant interruptions
- Higher stress levels are linked to health problems such as migraines and hypertension
- Increase in turnover as employees are looking for flexible or distant roles
- Damage to the culture and collaboration of companies
How companies can mitigate overcrowding
- Deposit schedules. Hybrid changes can reduce daily workforce.
- Rethinking spaces and creating silent areas or telephone booths for targeted work.
- Use booking systems. Office booking applications prevent the overputization of a limited space.
- Encourage flexible work. Remote or hybrid options relieve pressure on office density.
- Listen to the staff. Regular surveys reveal morale before the problems end.
“In the end, the management of a congested workplace is to protect your employees. Companies that act now not only will keep their workforce, but are also distinguished as adaptive employers and focused on employees. On the competitive labor market today, that is to say that companies need. ” Wright concluded.
