The concept of an agile workplace is a very big shift from the very structured work environments of the past. Today’s employees have far more independence and autonomy than ever before.
So what does it mean to have a flexible work environment?
Agile organizations have a special kind of fluidity that exists between co-workers of all levels. Efficient and effective idea sharing and problem solving takes place regularly. And nurturing that kind of corporate culture means that employees are automatically more proactive and accountable in their work.
And while agile working environments do embrace flexibility and change in some ways, it’s important to remember that being agile and flexible doesn’t mean “no rules”. A successful organization will maintain a certain level of stability, meaning that some core values and practices do not change over time or due to outside forces. But agility does mean encouraging remote working solutions, unique problem solving processes, and consistent communications…these and other unique approaches can be tailored both to meet the needs and wants of today’s workforce as well as satisfy the needs of your organization as a whole.
Make sure you use the correct tools to ensure success
Whether you’re coordinating your remote workforce or encouraging communication between different offices, agile workplaces benefit greatly from carefully-selected technology to enhance productivity and communication. Keep everyone on the same page with Slack chatter throughout the day. Share documents easily with Google Docs. Encourage face-to-face video meetings with Zoom. Be sure your team has access to the appropriate technology for your industry to keep them organized and motivated and to allow them to work effectively.
True leadership, not micro-management
Your employees can offer you a lot of really great and accurate insight about the intricacies they face each day and how best to do their job. In an agile workplace, think of your leadership team as a coach or a guide, not a management team reigning from up above with limited access to the employees below. Good leadership encourages and facilitates communication between departments and employee groups and keeps everyone working together to solve problems and reach common goals.
Cultivate true purpose and enhance corporate culture
Working in an agile workplace is a more entrepreneurial way of doing business. But combining solid guiding principles with a dynamic, innovative workplace environment not only ensures an organization’s success, it means happier employees. Maintaining open communication, flexible work options, and true team environment means that you are creating a corporate culture that people are going to talk about…in a good way. Happy employees will share the new about your refined yet flexible way of doing business. And they will work hard to ensure your organization’s success.
Do you need help creating an agile work environment at your organization? Contact the experts at Wild Coffee HR today. We love partnering with companies to help them thrive. It’s what we do.