Shhhh, people are wroking
While many of us would probably prefer a private office with a door, open-plan offices are becoming more and more common in businesses worldwide. The benefits are clear: they are cost-effective, improve communication and collaboration, reduce ‘loafing’ and can increase productivity. There is also a downside: it can be difficult to concentrate with overwhelming distractions like phones ringing, colleagues talking and walking around and office equipment running. So, I thought it was time to remind ourselves of some basics that can help us take Key Steps to…
Curb noise pollution
- Keep the noise level down. Don’t use speaker phone (find private venues for conference calls) and mute the sounds on your PC (incoming email alarms can drive colleagues crazy). And remember that others can hear your phone conversations, so keep your voice down and keep private calls to lunch time or after hours.
- Manage your phones. The ringing of desk phones and mobile phones is one of the main sources of noise in an open plan office, so be considerate. Turn down the volume of your phone, answer it within three rings and if you will be away from your desk for a long period of time, have your phone diverted directly to voicemail or an alternative number.
- Minimise distractions. Using earphones (if company policy allows) helps to avoid disturbing others and it’s a great way to block out office noise. Listen to music, or click here to try the free SimplyNoise white noise generator to mask sounds.We all contribute to the noise levels in our offices and need to be more considerate and aware. It is also important to establish appropriate boundaries and be open to giving and receiving feedback from colleagues. Contact Tiffany to book your seat on our Assertive Communication & Conflict Management workshop on 1 & 2 September 2016 and gain skills that will allow you to handle tough conversations and work more effectively and productively. Let’s take Key Steps together this week and…
“be the difference that makes the difference”
To learn how to overcome difficult times, set objectives, move your life forward and create the life you deserve, contact Tiffany and book one of our public workshops.
