How The Choice of Office Furniture Can Impact Business
These days, everyone knows that happy, healthy employees are key to a company's success. This is especially true for small- to medium-sized businesses (SMBs) that are now investing more than ever in ergonomic office solutions.
AMQ decided to dig deeper into this trend. We partnered with WorkSpace Futures, conducted numerous interviews with key decision-makers, and found some interesting insights. Many SMB businesses found that spending on premium furniture is worth it because it promotes employee health, wellbeing, and enhances their business’ brand.
Cheap vs. Quality Furniture
The interviews revealed relevant strategies to help you redesign your office:
- Focus on Ergonomics and Employee Health: Comfortable, ergonomic furniture is crucial. Unhappy and uncomfortable workers aren't productive. Good furniture, like height-adjustable desks, helps prevent health issues linked to poor posture and prolonged sitting.
- Boost your Professional Credibility with Customers: A professionally designed office and high-quality furniture help your company make a great impression on clients and job candidates. This can give you a competitive edge to attract top talent.
- Enhance your Business’ Culture: Modern offices are about more than just furniture. They need to inspire creativity and collaboration. Cozy and stylish furniture enhances your business culture, creating an inviting and productive environment.
What Respondents Say
Spending money on these priorities, not just for looks but to create a space where employees can thrive pays off, according to those we spoke to.
One respondent from an accounting firm said, "We wanted quality products for our workspaces because they’re used every day. It’s where the money is made."
Sharon, from a tech firm, added, "We want our employees to feel at home. The workspace should be inviting and comfortable."
The Hype Around Height-Adjustable Desks
One product shown to improve employee well-being is the Height Adjustable Desk. These adjustable desks have become a must-have in modern offices. Rare 25 years ago, they offer big health and productivity benefits, allowing workers to switch between sitting and standing, improving posture, reducing strain, and even boosting metabolism. This keeps energy levels up and fights off the afternoon slump.
The Power of Ergonomic Task Chairs
Another smart investment to make is ergonomic task chairs. These chairs are designed to support the spine's natural curvature and reduce the risk of back pain and spinal issues. By promoting good posture with proper lumbar support, they keep employees less distracted by discomfort, and better focused on their tasks. Although ergonomic chairs might have a higher upfront cost, they save money in the long run by cutting healthcare expenses related to poor posture and boosting productivity.
Better Health, Better ROI
Investing in ergonomic and wellness-focused office furniture is a growing trend across many industries because it’s been shown to pay off. By making these investments, you’ll find that the ROI includes lower healthcare costs, higher productivity, and better talent retention. To further maximize these benefits, make sure employees are trained on using ergonomic products and introduce policies that encourage movement and regular breaks throughout the day.
The Big Picture
There’s a cultural shift happening where both personal and professional wellness are highly valued. By focusing on employee well-being your company will be recognized as innovative and caring. With so many companies adopting this approach, the move towards healthier workplaces is set to continue, ushering in a new era of employee-focused business practices.
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