The Soundtrack of Our Office Lives: Creating the Best Office Playlist

Harness the power of music to boost mood and motivation in your office. That’s right, increasing productivity is as simple as curating the right playlist for the office. For maximum benefit, you need to pick the right music.  

Use these tips to help you choose the best songs for your office setting. 

Music Isn’t Always Helpful 

Playing music in the office is not helpful to everyone. Those who are extroverted tend to find music helpful. These people crave mental stimulation, so playing music gives them the micro distraction they need to be more productive. 

In contrast, introverts tend to find office background music too distracting. This can result in a decline in their productivity and work quality. 

Before you create an office playlist, decide if it will improve or hinder your team’s productivity. 

The Most Popular Songs 

The most popular background music for offices is Top 40 pop songs. It is the music you hear on the radio with an uptempo beat and catchy lyrics. 

Interestingly, the most popular songs for those working from home differ slightly. The songs tend to have a faster tempo and more passionate lyrics. This suggests that people working alone from home need more energetic music to boost productivity. 

Music to Influence Mood 

The music you listen to can impact your mental state. So, choosing the right music can directly impact building a positive work culture. For example, happy music can cause your brain to release dopamine and serotonin.  

Repetition or Variety 

Keep in mind that people grow tired of listening to the same thing over and over. Choosing office music is not a one-and-done task. Instead, create a plan for variety to avoid high repetition. You could create themed days throughout the week. 

You could let a different employee pick the music each day. Sign up for a service that automatically curates a radio-style playlist for continued long-term listening. 

Other Soundtrack Options 

Classical music is a good compromise when you have extroverts and introverts working together. The instrumentals feature elegant melodies and complex harmonies that balance stimulation and calming. 

If you want to skip music altogether, you could opt for natural sounds or white noise. This type of soundtrack is perfect for creating a calming and soothing environment. Try ocean waves, thunder sounds, a rainforest, or birds. 

World music is another music for work option for influencing mood while reducing distraction. Choose music in another language that allows people to feel the energy without understanding the words. Just be sure you don’t accidentally pick something that isn’t work-appropriate. 

Finally, consider holiday music for a change of pace. Many offices will play a seasonal office playlist during November and December. This is a great way to get people in the mood leading up to your office holiday party

Make a Playlist for Work

The choice of background music should be a strategic decision aimed at fostering a positive work culture and enhancing productivity. It’s not merely about playing what’s popular; it’s about using music as a tool to influence mood and motivation. The best playlist for work will have a positive impact on your mood and productivity. 

Create a workspace where employees want to be with the guidance of our experienced team. 

9 Top New Year Office Resolutions for 2024

New Year, New Workspace Goals!

As we welcome 2024, it’s the perfect time to set fresh office resolutions that foster productivity, creativity, and well-being in your workspace. Whether you work from a corporate office or a home setup, these resolutions can revolutionize the way you work.

1. Revamp Your Desk Layout

Start the new year by giving your desk a makeover. Organize your supplies, invest in ergonomic furniture, and make your workspace a place where you feel motivated and focused.

2. Improve Posture and Ergonomics

One essential office resolution for 2024 is to focus on ergonomics. An ergonomically designed workspace can significantly reduce the risk of strain and injury, enhancing both comfort and productivity.

3. Enhance Your Work-Life Balance

Setting clear boundaries between work and personal life is crucial. Dedicate specific hours to work and stick to them. This resolution is key to maintaining a healthy balance and reducing burnout.

4. Go Green

Add some plants to your office. Not only do they purify the air, but they also boost mood and creativity, making them a fantastic addition to any workspace.

5. Digital Detox

Commit to regular digital detoxes. Allocate time away from screens during the day to give your eyes and mind a break. This office resolution can lead to increased productivity and better mental health.

6. Prioritize Mental Health

Make mental health a priority by incorporating mindfulness or stress-reduction techniques into your daily routine. A few minutes of meditation or deep breathing can have a profound impact.

7. Upgrade Your Technology

Invest in technology that can streamline your workflow. Whether it’s a faster computer, more efficient software, or better communication tools, upgrading your tech can be a game-changer.

8. Continue Learning

Commit to learning something new related to your field. Whether it’s taking an online course, attending workshops, or reading industry-related books, continuous learning is vital for professional growth.

9. Get More Movement Throughout the Day

Incorporate more physical activity into your workday to stay energized and healthy. Consider using a sit-to-stand desk to alternate between sitting and standing. This simple change can improve your posture, increase your energy levels, and reduce the risks associated with prolonged sitting.

New Year Office Resolutions for a Productive Year

Setting and adhering to your office resolutions for 2024 can significantly improve your work experience and productivity. Choose resolutions that align with your personal and professional goals, and watch as your workspace transforms into a more efficient, enjoyable, and healthy environment. Remember, a small change can make a big difference. Here’s to a productive and fulfilling year ahead!

Office Jargon Decoded: Translating Buzzwords Into Plain English

The word “jargon” has a much longer history than most realize. In Old French and Middle English, it meant “twittering.” One of its earliest uses was in The Canterbury Tales, where Chaucer uses it to describe the noise birds make.

Understandably, considering jargon now refers to in-group vocabulary that is meaningless to outsiders. Much like avian twittering is to humans.

You may hear your own employees slinging around office jargon. Fail to comprehend this business speak, and you lose an important chance to communicate.

To make it easy for you, we’re here to translate business buzzwords into plain English. Read on for a quick glossary of current-year business sayings.

Brain Dump

Brain dump may sound like an eloquent version of brain fart, but it’s more intuitive than that. A brain dump is “dumping” everything from your brain onto a notes page. It also just so happens to be a technique for managing stress.

Office Jargon Example

Jim had a brainstorming sesh with Pam about how to prank their colleague Dwight. He did a quick brain dump of ways to convince Dwight that the weekend was coming one day early. Dwight then ruined his perfect attendance streak by taking Friday off like it was Saturday.

Clock Watcher

Clock watchers are close cousins of quiet quitters. They’ve got an eagle eye on the clock, ready to soar out of the office the moment it strikes 5 PM. Finding a clock watcher clocked in outside their scheduled hours is like finding a Gen Z intern without TikTok.

Office Jargon Example

Stanley got a new standing desk. Not just because of the obvious benefits. Also because as soon as 5 PM rolls around, he saves himself a minute or two since he’s ready to walk out.

Flesh Out

Flesh out might seem like a code word to let Meredith know she’s got a bit too much cleavage again. But no, flesh out is just an informal way to say “elaborate.” I.e., expanding upon or adding substance to an idea.

Office Jargon Example

Holly in HR didn’t ask Creed to flesh out his prior experience. She feared he might not be joking about having worked for the mafia.

Hot Desking

Hot desking isn’t about the seating arrangement for the office’s most attractive people. Rather, a creative way to use space. Hot desking means having dynamic desk assignments based on current needs.

Office Jargon Example

Ryan decided to hot desk Jim’s seat while Jim was gone. He figured it was a helpful way to stay close to the boss, Michael Scott. He sorely regretted this decision when Michael sent him on random errands to get yams.

Maximize Your Space with Workspace Solutions

Office jargon changes from year to year, so it behooves you to keep up-to-date with the latest business sayings. These days, they range from brain dump to flesh out. Come tomorrow, employees may determine that the term “clock watcher” has fallen out of fashion and turn to something else.

Workspace Solutions’ mission is simple: give you high-quality office furniture, and perfect the arrangement for it. Get started with our list of ergonomic, modern-day pieces.

The Hybrid Office: Balancing In-Person and Remote Workspaces

The way that many businesses work has changed dramatically in recent years, and as many as 74% of US companies currently have a hybrid work model or are planning one.

A hybrid office can provide a new, innovative way for people to get work done, and they’ve already proved very effective. They’re still a fairly new concept, however, so most organizations aren’t too sure about the best practices when creating one.

In this guide, we’ll look at some key elements that will help you create a balanced hybrid workspace. Keep reading for more.

Ask Employees What They Want

Everyone has different priorities, and therefore different things that they want out of their workplace. The best way to get a better insight into what your employees would prefer is to simply ask them.

Most workplaces haven’t used a hybrid model before, so it’s hard to know exactly how to set it up. You can get feedback from your employees on what they think would be most useful for them. Make sure, however, that you keep things realistic and reasonable.

This could relate to the tools they have available, amenities like coffee or vending machines, or simply access to ergonomic office furniture so that they’re more comfortable at work.

Offer Some Options

People love flexibility, so giving your hybrid team options can prove very beneficial. This can include allowing for primarily in-office teams, primarily remote teams, or an even balance between the two.

You can allow people to change their preferences, but not too frequently. You want to be able to plan ahead and stay aware of where people will be at different times. Doing this will help you with resource allocation.

Embrace Technology

Modern technology has made remote working possible and it helps to make hybrid workspaces a reality. Videoconferencing tools and cloud-based productivity software, for example, are essential for almost all online workspaces.

Make sure everyone has access to the hardware and software they need to avoid technical issues and delays. There may be some tasks that can only be done in-office, so identify these and determine the best solutions.

Ensure your employees have easy access to whatever they need, but your network also needs to be secure. Cybersecurity is a major risk, so not something to be ignored.

Maintain Your Company’s Culture

Pinning down company culture can be tricky, and even more so with people working remotely. Through effective team management, you can keep remote employees tethered to the social side of your company. Informal online meetups are an ideal way to do this.

Remote employees should still feel like they’re getting the full colleague experience. It’s also a good idea to review perks to make sure they’re not only benefiting those who are in the office. If they are, work on finding a solution that will ensure everyone is treated fairly.

Your Hybrid Office

There are various approaches you can take to a hybrid office. It’s important to think about what would work best for your company and your employees.

Workplace Solutions can help to design and outfit your office to create the perfect hybrid workspace. Get in touch today to find out more about our office design capabilities.

Remote Work Essentials: Furniture and Setup Tips

If you suffer from lower back pain, you are one of 619 million people worldwide who suffer from this debilitating condition. For many, it is their poorly designed office that causes their pain and frustration. This is concerning, considering that many of us spend 40-plus hours a week performing office work. 

These remote work essentials will help you improve your productivity and feel physically better. 

Desk 

Because ergonomics is all about creating a natural body position, it’s best to start with your desk. Then, you can adjust everything around it. An ergonomic desk setup lets you fit your legs underneath. 

When you sit at the desk, the tabletop should be at bent elbow height. Hold your arms at your side and bend your elbows. Your forearms should naturally rest on the desk. 

Standing Desks

While there are many benefits of standing desks, you can’t jump right into using one. Start with 30 minutes a day. Then, build up to longer periods. 

When using a standing desk, you need to stand upright without slouching. Otherwise, you risk back and leg pain. 

Chair 

When you do remote work, you can pick your ideal desk chair. Choose a chair that works with your desk and also fits your body.

Your hips and knees should be at 90-degree angles to experience the greatest benefit. Your chair should support your spine’s natural “S” shape.  

Computer Screen 

When remote working or working in the office, your computer screen should be directly in front of you at eye level. Place your laptop on a riser or get a second monitor screen to look at. 

Keyboard 

Get a second, separate keyboard. You can place this keyboard in the most comfortable place on your desk. That way, your arms don’t reach too far in front of you. 

You will know your keyboard is in the right place if your wrists stay straight and your arms stay close to your body while typing. This should happen naturally, so don’t force it. 

Mouse

Your mouse should be close to the keyboard, on the side of your dominant hand. You shouldn’t have to reach too far by extending your arm. In addition, consider the shape of your mouse. 

Choose a mouse that allows your hand to sit in a natural position. Overly flat mice can put strain on your palm and finger muscles. 

Lighting 

Having ergonomic lighting in your workspace can reduce the number of errors you make by 30%. This does not mean adding more light. Instead, it means improving the type of light and its source. 

Aim to use natural light or artificial lighting that mimics natural light. Remove glare and shadows, as these create excessive eye strain. 

Try These Remote Work Essentials

Turn your home office into the ultimate productivity zone by implementing these remote work essentials. Standing desks, supportive chairs, appropriately positioned computer screens, separate keyboards, and ergonomic mice, are not just luxuries; they are the keys to a pain-free and efficient work routine. 

Contact our team and let Workspace Solutions design the perfect ergonomic office for you. 

The Office Cookbook: Quick and Easy Recipes for Busy Workdays

What if you could replace your regular workday meal with quick and easy lunch ideas requiring little to no cooking? You might free up more time to spend with your family or finally go out for that promotion you’ve been eyeing.

You can turn this dream into reality with this guide to what to pack for lunch on busy workdays. Read on for five simple yet healthy lunch bowls, wraps, and more to add to your weekday lunch rotation.

Fajita Chicken Lunch Bowls

This is the perfect homemade version of your favorite Chipotle bowl. You can even meal prep fajita lunch bowls! Make your life easier by switching out fresh ingredients for these healthy alternatives:

  • Pre-cooked fajita chicken strips
  • Cilantro lime quick-cook rice
  • Frozen corn and colorful bell peppers
  • Canned salsa

Add a lime wedge, avocado, and a sprinkle of cilantro for optional garnish to elevate this easy workday lunch.

Canned Salmon Salad Sandwiches

Tired of tuna salad sandwiches? Mix it up with canned salmon instead. Add a healthy dollop of mayonnaise, sour cream, or plain Greek yogurt, and consider these add-ins:

  • Finely chopped celery
  • Finely chopped red onion
  • Dried dill seasoning
  • Lemon juice

Serve your salmon salad sandwich on whole-grain bread. Or check out this dietitian-approved recipe for more serving ideas.

High-Protein Snack Boxes

There is no easier or faster way to do lunch than with pre-prepared snack boxes. This is also one of the best packable lunch ideas for people who prefer to graze throughout the day. Just make sure to include all your macros:

  • Protein: Hard-boiled eggs, cheese, and unsalted nuts are healthy choices
  • Carbs: Whole-grain crackers and popcorn are snack-box-fan favorites
  • Healthy Fats: Cheese and avocados are excellent sources of healthy fats
  • Fiber: Berries, apple slices, baby carrots, and beets are high-fiber options

A good snack box should offer a variety of options. That way, you’ll have something to look forward to when lunchtime rolls around.

Mediterranean Hummus Wraps

Hummus is an excellent source of protein, carbs, fiber, and healthy fats. Our favorite way to enjoy this Mediterranean classic is not in dip form but as a protein source in a multi-grain wrap. Pair your wrap with ingredients like:

  • Sliced cucumbers
  • Greens
  • Chopped tomatoes
  • Red onion
  • Feta cheese

Check out this Mediterranean hummus wrap recipe for more inspiration. Just switch out the homemade hummus for a premade version instead.

Easy Egg Stir-Fried Rice

Egg-fried rice is nutritious and delicious and can be whipped up almost as fast as scrambling an egg. Here are the ingredients needed to make your favorite stir-fry recipe workday-friendly:

  • Frozen carrot and pea mixture
  • Pre-sliced green onions
  • Garlic and ginger pastes
  • Quick-cook rice

If you want to up the protein content, add pre-cooked chicken, beef, or shrimp. This dish is also easy to make vegan with scrambled tofu instead of eggs.

These Are the Best Quick and Easy Lunch Ideas

Fajita lunch bowls, salmon salad sandwiches, snack boxes, hummus wraps, and egg-fried rice are some of the best quick and easy lunch ideas out there. These meals will have you feeling more productive at work and stress-free at home.

Still feeling a midday slump even with these nutrient-rich lunches? Your office furniture may be to blame. Browse Workspace Solutions’ office furniture collection for a more ergonomic setup at an affordable price.

Creative Ways to Maximize Space in a Small Office

Research has shown that people who work in clean working environments are more likely to do productive and positive things. However, if your office space is tiny and cluttered, it can be tough for your employees to focus. It might also result in low morale and a higher turnover rate. 

You can maximize the space you have with the right organizational hacks and furniture, and we’re here to show you how. Use these tips to make the most of a small office. 

Declutter to Create Space

Clutter has a direct impact on your mental health, and it can make it difficult to gauge how much space you actually have. It’s easy to accumulate items, documents, and old equipment that you may not use anymore. 

Digitizing information creates much more space and makes finding information easier. If you can get rid of old documents, make sure you use a secure shredding service and follow all laws regarding customer or patient information. 

Do you have old office equipment or electronics sitting around that no longer work? If so, scheduling an e-waste pickup can help you recycle them and give you more room. 

Design a Collaborative Office

A small office can feel even more cramped with excess barriers like cubicles or walls. Instead, create a collaborative office space. These open floor plans give the impression of having more room and they encourage communication with other colleagues. 

This is an excellent way to get employees from different teams to talk, bond, and share ideas. 

The key is to have the right small office furniture and create a functional layout.

Large desks and tables with room for multiple monitors or laptops allow employees to sit near one another while still having their own space. Comfortable couches and chairs create a more inviting environment that fosters creativity.

Your employees will feel less stressed which can help them focus and become more productive. 

Use Vertical Space

Many office spaces focus on using floor space but neglect to come up with storage solutions that maximize the vertical space they have.  

Build shelves into the wall to create storage. One of our favorite small office furniture ideas is to install a tall storage cabinet for shared materials. There are even corner shelves for those awkward spaces that can leave you feeling stumped for ideas. 

Place Creative Dividers

Solid walls block your view and chop up a space. If you need privacy, consider using creative dividers like glass walls or slatted panels that define areas without cutting off natural light or feeling too closed in. 

When you have a small office space, you want to maximize the natural light you have as it makes the space feel bigger. 

Make the Most of a Small Office

Having a small office doesn’t mean you can’t create an inviting and functional work environment. Use these tips to maximize the space you have. 

Are you interested in transforming your floor plan? Here at Workspace Solutions, we sell a variety of business furniture and design workspaces to make the most of your office area, no matter the size. 

Contact us to go over your goals and begin your project.