How to Keep Focus on Work Whilst Using a Hot Desk
Hot desking comes with many positives, but these advantages can go to waste if employees can’t focus.
Understanding the Hot Desk Environment
Instead of each worker having their own workspace, hot desking involves workers using different desks. There are tonnes of advantages to this:
- It can enhance collaboration. This is particularly useful for group projects
- It creates a flexible environment
- It’s useful for a hybrid work model so desks don’t go unused for a long time. Utilising space in this way can also help companies save money
- It can change a person’s environment which can be mentally refreshing. This can lead to higher productivity and motivation.
However, hot desking environments come with some downfalls such as noisiness and other distractions. So how can you keep focus on work when you’re in a hot desking environment? Here are some tips and tricks:
Create a Productive Workspace at Your Hot Desk
Keeping the office clean is one way to help people stay productive. If you’re working at a cluttered and dirty desk, it can be harder to stay focused. After using a workspace, always make sure to remove any rubbish and double-check that you haven’t left any crumbs from your sandwich.
That being said, desks don’t need to be completely empty. Having greenery on your desk and around the office is a great way to keep people feeling awake. Plants can increase productivity, improve air quality and make an office look more appealing to work in. Having pens and paper nearby is also useful for making any important notes. Ask employees if there’s anything they would like on the desks or around the office to help them focus.
Time Management Techniques to Stay Focused
Plan out how long you’ll be using a desk and let others know. If you’re aware of this, then it can help you plan what you need to do in the time you have. If other people are aware, then it can allow them to do the same. Having a desk booking system is an organised way of doing this. It can help employees be sure that there’s a desk waiting for them at work.
Minimise Distraction in a Hot Desk Environment
Hot desk environments can be noisy at times. Some workers like this, but others may find it can cause a distraction. Bringing noise-cancelling headphones where you can listen to music or a podcast can be useful to some employees. Different things allow people to concentrate, so it’s important that you find whatever is best for you.
Maintain Mental and Physical Wellbeing
Don’t forget to give yourself breaks. You’re more likely to have higher productivity levels if you give yourself periods away from the computer. Stepping outside, grabbing a coffee, or sitting in a break-out area for a few minutes can allow you to feel refreshed. Many hot desking locations have other facilities on-site, like exercise areas and shared kitchens - don’t forget to take advantage of these.
Set Boundaries
Setting boundaries is a great way to limit distractions. If a colleague is trying to talk to you but you want to concentrate, politely let them know you’re busy. You might want to suggest meeting up in the lunch hour to catch up instead. Also remember that people work in different ways. There may be a break-out area or phone booth that you’d rather work in. If you have the opportunity to do this and you think it would be helpful; do it!
How Technology Can Help
Many hot-desking environments allow you to move your laptop and equipment around. For example, everyone might have the same laptop which means they can use adaptable equipment. This is helpful because it means you can move if you want to. For example, if the sun is in your eyes and it’s distracting you, you might decide to move somewhere else in the room.
Contact Spacepool for a Range of Hot Desks
At Spacepool, we have a range of office spaces to explore, including hot desk environments. They all have different layouts, facilities and amenities so you can choose a space which works best for you. To support you with your search, you can use our filtering tool, which will help you find specifics. Find the perfect hot desking space with Spacepool today!