Happiness in the Workplace

Happiness is directly tied to productivity, therefore it is more important than given credit for. A rational man is less likely to leave a happy workplace for a hostile one even If it pays more. But the job of ensuring a happy work environment cannot entirely belong on the environment itself - it should be a collective effort from each and every member of the organization. Here are our top tips that you can follow to create a blissful work environment.

Look sharp
A bit of grooming never really hurt anyone. The better you dress, the fresher you look and the more confident and comfortable you feel. Taking care of your overall health and appearance, although seemingly painstaking, does make a difference to your overall performance. How people dress, and carry themselves speaks volumes about who they are. A neat and tidy get- up reflects meticulousness. And that makes a great impression. A few compliments from co-workers on your tie, or how much slimmer you look, don't hurt either.

The early bird sings the sweeter tune
Try to wake up at least an hour before setting out for the workplace. Spend some comfortable 'me' time. You can even spend a portion of that time working out, or taking a morning walk. This will help you show up at the workplace in a better mood and a better frame of mind.

Jazz up your desk
Keep the workplace as tidy as possible, as well as well ventilated. Play some soft music, some soothing smooth jazz or bebop (if allowed), the kind of music that won't distract you or make your surroundings inaudible to you. You are a part of the environment, and you share a part of the responsibility of making it a better place. The more you invest in making the workplace a happier one, the more involved you will feel.

Avoid negative people
It's best to casually avoid negative people when possible. Such people can be a source of undue stress, conflict and even at times an unwanted influence. They can lower your job satisfaction and may even lead to your losing productivity which will further reduce job satisfaction.

Throw in a smile
Informal communication in the workplace may not seem to do much to meet organizational objectives, but much of the internal culture of a company is built on informal interaction between employees. Try to be an easy person to approach and be around. Greet everyone with smiles when you walk into the workplace. Hang out with co-workers after-hours from time to time. One fun way to get to know them is might be to engage in group games, like charades, which may seem childish at first, but it is good to get away from being grown-ups all the time. Many people still prefer a properly recited salaam over a curt nod and a handshake. People tend to respect you a little more when you take care to greet them and engage them in small talk about how they are. Being able engage in small talk is a very important social skill one needs to learn to get along and get ahead. Taking care of little things, like holding doors open for a colleague or offering them seats can put you in a rather heightened place in their perspective.

How Reception Design is Becoming More Human

Reception areas are a building’s chance to make a lasting first impression on its visitors, and construe subtle messages about the companies that inhabit them. Not so long ago, this fact instigated glossy and imposing spaces, with heels clomping across a vast expanse of marble floor (with the sound echoing off the marble walls), but now they are a little more welcoming. Online fashion store ASOS’s entrance for example, is done out in reclaimed scaffold board and eclectic vintage furniture, with a bustling cafe to boot, while Rochdale Council’s new did away with the ominous reception desk altogether, opting for movable booths and so-called ‘floor-walkers’ to greet visitors instead of receptionists.

“Receptions have always been important because they’re the front door to your house,” says Suki Shocker, head of design at Hi Design, describing BBA reception at Wigmore St London. “What I’ve seen change is that they have become more human. Look back 10 years, and receptions were quite prestigious; they had the expensive materials and durability, but they were impersonal. They are used in a different way now.”

Hi Designs reception design for BBA is still impressive, but in a softer way. Working with a single-height space but aiming to create the illusion of depth, the firm drew inspiration from aviation with the reception desk being a cross section of a wing. The ceiling and walls form a series of angled and reflective surfaces that give the impression more space. Lights embedded in the bulk head and media wall creating a sense of drama and interest. Polished surfaces absorb light, giving the space its diffused glow.

“You’re always looking towards an illuminated space; there are no dark grey ceilings or downlit areas,” says Suki. “We still have the marble floors and mirror-backed glass, but there’s a human aspect. Visitors don’t want a cold space – it needs to be warm and welcoming."

To see more of BBA’s office space please click here.