The workplace environment affects how employees feel about their jobs and can influence their work habits. The physical environment is one factor that can affect employee productivity, but the way staff members interact and how they are treated also play a role in the overall work climate. Whether you notice a decline in employee performance or you want to take a proactive approach to prevent problems, approach changes to the environment gradually and focus on the biggest areas of need in your office.

1 Walk through the workplace to inspect the physical environment. Look for outdated, broken or dangerous equipment and workstations that need to be fixed or replaced. Make a list and start working on those improvements.

2 Meet with employees to determine areas for improvement in the workplace. Look for suggestions on physical improvements as well as improvements on staff relations and management practices. Review the list with other managers after the meeting to determine the feasibility of implementing the ideas.

3 Inspect workstations to make sure they are ergonomic. Chairs should provide adequate support through the backrest and armrests while allowing employees to slide their legs under desks. Employees should be able to adjust their computer monitors and keyboards to use them comfortably.

4 Replace light fixtures that don't work well. Add more task lighting to work areas. Position desks near windows to utilize the natural sunlight.

5 Rearrange furniture to create more functional work areas based on the type of work and collaborations that take place in the office. Give employees personal workspace along with areas for meetings and collaborative work.

6 Add color to the walls with artwork. Hang a bulletin board that highlights employee achievements, birthdays and other employee-related information. Invite employees to get involved in decorating the walls and contributing to the bulletin board displays.

7 Develop a sense of community in the workplace by getting employees more involved in work-sponsored activities. Take an interest in the personal lives and interests of employees. Schedule family night activities at a local park, sports complex, restaurant or similar venue to allow staff members to get to know one another outside the workplace.

8 Incorporate team-building activities at the office if employees struggle to work together. Hold workshops on working as a team.

9 Base your company policies and goals on mutual respect and a sense of fairness. Be consistent when applying policies, dispensing punishments and implementing rewards so you don't create division or jealousy among staff members.

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