With the Right Design and Atmosphere, Work Can Be a Happy Place for Stressed Workers
In a recent Monster.com survey, an astounding 95% of workers said they were thinking of quitting their jobs. The most common reason for wanting to leave was burnout.
Creating environments that enable staff to relax, take a break, enjoy some recreational activities, and have a workplace that feels home-like, senior living communities can attract and retain the best workers.
How? Try these ideas:
Create home-like work environments. For some workers, the community is more of a comfortable environment than their homes. And for those workers who may have unhappy or stressful home lives, work can be a place of solace. Office spaces that are painted with soothing colors (blues and greens) are helpful. Avoid harsh fluorescent lighting. Instead, bring in as much natural light as possible (nothing equals the benefits of natural illumination and a touch of sunlight). Have comfortable, ergonomic chairs that offer ample back support. Cut back on noise with bi-fold doors and acoustic panels. Have state-of-the-art dehumidification in all staff areas. Have some personal spaces (cabinets, shelves, etc.) where staff can display personal items such as photos, vases, or decorative items. When possible, have office spaces open to patios, balconies, or courtyards that offer private outdoor space.
Have spaces in the community to showcase staff appreciation. Consider glass cases with staff photos and bios, letters of appreciation, and displays that acknowledge outstanding achievements of staff, whether it’s an LPN getting her RN degree, a chef winning a cooking contest, or a marketing staffer running a marathon, take opportunities to recognize staff and help residents get to know them as individuals. Consider including artwork by staff as part of the building décor, and recognize these contributions with special plaques or posters.
Create an oasis where staff can decompress when things get stressful. This should be separate from the break room. Ideally, this could be a room with a spa feel – soft music and lighting, comfortable sofas, a massage chair, aromatherapy, a refrigerator with healthy beverages and snacks, and access to amenities like cooling face masks and heat-able neck wraps. This space should be exclusively for staff and remote enough that they aren’t exposed to the noise and activity of the rest of the building.
Enable private access to outdoor spaces. While staff enjoys engaging with residents, there are times when they want some privacy where they can be alone or bond with colleagues. Walking paths or game rooms/areas, perhaps accessible from or attached to the break room, that are more private can give them this opportunity to relax, talk, and laugh away from their work and from public spaces.
Such efforts demonstrate to staff that they are valued and that their workplace is a safe space. When they find comfort, restoration, and fun at work, they are more likely to feel engaged on the job; and they can be the best advertisement to attract new employees. This can be a tremendous advantage at a time when competition for good workers is at an all-time high.
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