Te esfuerzas por tener un lugar de trabajo inclusivo. ¿Cómo manejas las distracciones de manera efectiva?

Create a bubble in the workspace design thoughtfully. If specific workspaces are designated for focus work, be mindful of where the spaces are in relation to other adjacent areas. For example, spaces around collaboration spaces should be delineated to manage noise from these spaces. Similarly, signages will help manage traffic flow and minimal noise or disruption.

I've found that minimizing auditory distractions is crucial in fostering productivity. For instance, in a previous role, we installed soundproofing panels and created quiet zones. These adjustments dramatically improved focus for team members working on sensitive projects. Noise-canceling headphones were also provided as a personalized option, respecting individual sensitivities to sound.

Visual distractions can often be underestimated, but their impact is significant. At my current company, we introduced adjustable desk partitions, allowing employees to tailor their workspaces for privacy. This small change empowered them to maintain focus, especially in open-plan offices, where visual stimuli can easily disrupt deep work.

Tech enablers are equally important. Scale up and provide reliable IT support on-site or offline to address technical issues that may disrupt work. Plan ahead. Work contingencies or projects intersection during 'peak' work periods can also be planned ahead and managed in the context of workspace, allocation, utilisation and disruption.

Leveraging technology to reduce interruptions has been a game changer. For instance, implementing communication tools like Slack, with status updates, allows employees to signal their availability. This reduces unnecessary disruptions and encourages a balance between collaboration and individual focus time, especially during high-stakes projects.

I encourage employees to personalize their workspaces, whether through ergonomic chairs, standing desks, or lighting preferences. In one instance, an employee struggling with discomfort requested a specialized chair, which improved her focus and productivity. Allowing personalization creates a sense of ownership over their environment, reducing stress and distractions.

At a team level - establish clear communication channels and protocols to ensure that information is shared effectively and efficiently. This minimises disruption and optimises work delivery. At an individual level - encourage employees to develop effective time management strategies to stay focused and productive despite disruptions.

Flexibility in office design is paramount. I’ve led initiatives where we introduced movable furniture and adjustable lighting, allowing teams to adapt spaces to their needs. This adaptability helped employees feel more in control of their environment, minimizing distractions and enabling smoother transitions between collaborative and solo work.

Integrating wellness into the workplace is essential for reducing distractions. In one of my leadership roles, we introduced natural lighting and relaxation areas with indoor plants. This not only improved the mental health of the staff but also helped them recharge during breaks, ensuring they returned to work refreshed and focused.