A noisy workplace filled with chatty coworkers, running equipment, and squeaky chairs can make focusing on tasks difficult. The solution is to soundproof the office space. A noise-free professional work environment improves employee productivity. Here’s how to introduce soundproofing to the office.

Is workplace noise a concern?

The typical office is staffed with numerous employees, the outcome of which is a noisy environment. When sound is an issue, distractions abound and clear communication is absent. As a result, office staff feel frustrated and less productive; plus, their mental or physical health can be affected.

Research finds that 30 percent of staff working in cubicles are dissatisfied with the level of noise in their immediate workspace. An open work area is no less conducive to sound privacy. Although an open floor plan encourages collaboration, excess sounds are a major workplace concern.

What are soundproofing strategies?

1. Play White Noise

Playing a steady stream of static noise drowns out the cacophony of sounds in the office. White noise machines can be distributed to staff; alternately, place one in the center of the office. These machines work by providing auditory stimulation, thereby preventing listeners from noticing other noises.

2. Adjust Cubicles

In offices that feature cubicles, adjustments can be made to block out excess sounds. Increase the distance between cubicles so that sounds don’t reach the staff. Or, increase cubicle wall heights by installing taller partitions made of polyester fiber or insulated glass.

3. Switch the Flooring

Hard flooring reflects the most sound, from rolling chairs to employees dropping items. Reduce the amount of sound from the floor by installing carpets with soundproofing underlay. Soft material dampens sound, especially in instances when foot traffic causes the most noise.

4. Install Soundproofing Insulation

Control sound by insulating the office walls with soundproofing insulation. This material deflects noise coming from outside the building as well as impact sounds, such as when a chair collides with the wall. Use thicker insulation to keep out louder noises—while also increasing the office’s energy efficiency.

5. Offer Sound Blankets

While adding soundproofing installation takes time, an immediate fix is to hang soundproof blankets made of thick cotton or polyester over the cubicle walls. This tactic is an easy way to create a noise buffer between bothersome sounds and an employee’s workspace.

6. Add Acoustic Panels or Tiles

Acoustic panels made of compressed mineral wool or foam decrease noise by absorbing, rather than reflecting, sound waves. Sounds in the office are converted to kinetic energy that dissipates, thereby reducing a significant amount of noise. Acoustic ceiling tiles are likewise effective, but pricey.

7. Bring in Plants

Thick with branches, junipers and hollies effectively block noise. Place plants close together to create a sound-absorbent “wall.” Hanging plants absorb sound reverberations. Plants with dense vegetation not only keep out extraneous sounds but improve the look of the office and enhance its air quality.

8. Build Private Meeting Rooms

Reduce noise in parts of the office to give employees privacy to conduct meetings. Frameless glass partition panels that extend from the floor to the ceiling create spaces that offer flexibility and privacy. A quiet room is ideal for employees who want a retreat to focus on work.

9. Add Furniture to Areas with the Most Sound

Furniture absorbs and reflects noise, especially when the upholstered sofas, ottomans, and chairs are made of plush, sound-absorbing fabrics. Microfiber, suede, chenille, and corduroy materials are effective sound barriers. Curtains and tapestry stop sound waves and offer similar sound-reducing benefits.

10. Change the Office Layout

A thoughtful office layout can cut down on noise. Position the noisy equipment, such as fax machines and copiers, at the far end of the office to limit the amount of distracting sounds that reach employees hard at work. Or place the machines in a different room altogether.

11. Offer Noise-Canceling Headphones

Reducing the level of noise in the office is also doable at the staff level. Offer noise-canceling headphones, which operate by neutralizing low-frequency sounds before they reach the employees’ ears. These gadgets are especially suitable for colleagues working in open-plan office areas.

12. Install Office Partitions

Similar to acoustic panels, office partitions absorb noise by converting sound energy into heat that disperses. Place the partitions strategically; being unattached to the walls, they can be moved around to wherever additional soundproofing is necessary. Plus, they add visual privacy for employees.

13. Implement an Office Noise Policy

Cut down on excess noise by enforcing an office noise policy. The document should account for meetings and conversations between coworkers. For instance, ask that the break room door remain shut to prevent staff members on break from disturbing working employees.

Noise is a common complaint in office spaces. Reduce noise in the work environment by utilizing any combination of the abovementioned tactics. If your current office is far from ideal, you may wish to relocate. Chicago Office Movers can help you move and settle into a more suitable office space.

We are a reputable commercial mover with years of relocating local companies to greener pastures. Our move specialists are available to handle all phases of the move, from planning to packing and unpacking. Moving crews safely handle electronics, IT systems, artwork, office furniture, cubicles, and more.

Even the most delicate of office goods remain protected in our trucks, which feature climate-controlled spaces, lift gates, and air-ride suspensions. We also offer secure short- and long-term storage options, insurance and service contracts, add-on services, and convenient paperwork storage.

Companies place full trust in the moving crews at Chicago Office Movers, who are background-checked, licensed, and experienced. Along with a track record of delivering exceptional customer service, we offer affordable corporate relocation packages that satisfy businesses working within a budget.

Enjoy minimal disruptions to your company’s workflow when you choose Chicago Office Movers for an upcoming office relocation. We’re available to move your business locally, long-distance, or internationally.

Call our Chicago, Illinois, location at 312-244-2246 (CHI-CAGO) or fill out a form for a free estimate.

Companies understand the value of maximizing space and improving efficiency in order to enhance employee productivity. Office planning, as this process is known, is especially important for companies that expect future growth. Here are seven ways to create the desired work environment.

What is office planning?

The way professionals work has evolved over the last few years, incorporating technology as well as flexible work options. Embracing these changes successfully requires office planning. As a result of upgrading the workplace, companies are better able to meet shifting employee needs.

As mentioned, office planning involves taking actions that maximize space efficiency. It also boosts employee satisfaction as well as creativity in the workplace. Surroundings should inspire and motivate office staff, while giving them places to collaborate with colleagues or work alone.

Office planning considers the desired work atmosphere. A company’s choice of furniture, the floor plan, and décor create a specific vibe and reflect its core values. Staff should also have access to technology and equipment to enable them to perform their tasks efficiently.

What are the benefits of office planning?

Downsizing the office may be practical for employers who implement flexible work arrangements. The role of the workplace is altered when fewer staff come into the office; collaborative spaces may be necessary for group projects that take place when employees meet face-to-face.

Energy-efficiency and space optimization are just two of the many advantages of office planning. Other benefits include improvement in the employee experience, a focus on collaboration and teamwork, attracting and retaining talent, and increased cost reductions. Workers’ physical and mental health consequently improve, too.

What are the steps in office planning?

1. Analyze the existing office layout

A company must know how its office is currently being utilized before starting to plan. Determine how many employees come into the office each day and the type of workspace they prefer. Analyze how staff use furniture; some may feel more productive sitting on the sofa instead of a desk.

Determine the workspace’s capacity as a part of the initial phases of planning. Know how many employees the office must accommodate. Then consider how teams may be served; options include hot desks, open floor plans, individual workstations, desk neighborhoods, or flexible workspaces.

2. Involve employees in the office planning

Providing office staff with the ideal work conditions enhances productivity and well-being, which are crucial for the overall performance of the company. Create open and honest communication channels to learn how employees feel about working in particular spaces and what is lacking.

3. Take into account workplace values and culture

Making a positive impact on the environment may be an important part of an organization’s workplace culture. If so, introduce sustainability practices into the office planning to reflect the company’s core values. An office that echoes workplace culture drives employee loyalty.

4. Create collaboration spaces and quiet zones

An office may prioritize collaboration between employees. Office planning allows for collaboration spaces. Also factor in quiet spaces for staff who work alone. Ideally, place the collaboration spaces and quiet zones far apart from each other so that noise from the former does not affect the latter.

5. Bring in plants to inspire productivity

Inspiring employee efficiency is easily achieved by introducing plants into the work environment. Greenery has profound impact on improving productivity. Harness the power of plants by bringing in a few potted plants and lining them on the windowsill or clustering them in a corner of the office.

6. Design a healthy work environment

Design a workspace that promotes employees’ mental and physical health. Protect physical health by following the Occupational Health and Safety guidelines. Consider investing in ergonomic furniture. Focus on the air quality in the office. Companies might even dedicate a room to sports activities.

Enhance mental health by making subtle changes, like introducing more natural light into the office space. Establish more spaces for social interactions that boost feelings of community. The workplace should not trigger stress and anxiety but foster well-being and creativity.

7. Factor in future growth

Companies are typically focused on development and expansion. If growth is a foreseeable part of the organization, it’s important that the office planning creates the right environment to meet demands. Incorporate emerging trends and the technology staff use to avoid ending up with an obsolete space.

Creating a work environment that fosters productivity can be achieved with office planning. Incorporate design elements, like natural light, open floor plans, collaboration spaces, plants, and multipurpose work areas. A thriving work area should help employees feel connected and boost their creativity.

Introduce the future trends of work to keep the office staff happy and productive. This may mean relocating to a new building altogether. When a company relocation is on the horizon, choose Chicago Office Movers to make it happen on time, within budget, and with the least amount of stress.

We are an experienced commercial mover that has helped several prestigious universities and major corporations move. Our dedication to exceptional customer service has earned us consistently high ratings. Moving crews are licensed, trained, and background-checked to give you a seamless relocation experience.

Companies on the move have little time to handle the packing and unpacking. Leave these tasks to the trained professionals at Chicago Office Movers. Your office possessions will be handled carefully and loaded onto our trucks featuring lift gates, air-ride suspensions, and climate-controlled spaces.

As a trusted office mover, our specialists offer numerous conveniences, including helping companies plan their relocation. We offer short- and long-term storage options, insurance and service contracts, and add-on services. Crews are experienced in moving a range of goods, like sensitive IT systems, fragile antiques, and bulky office furniture.

Whether your company is moving locally, long-distance, or internationally, Chicago Office Movers is available to help you reach greener pastures. Minimize downtime by letting us handle your relocation from beginning to end. Obtain a free quote by calling our Elk Grove Village, Illinois, office today.

Companies understand the value of maximizing space and improving efficiency in order to enhance employee productivity. Office planning, as this process is known, is especially important for companies that expect future growth. Here are seven ways to create the desired work environment.

What is office planning?

The way professionals work has evolved over the last few years, incorporating technology as well as flexible work options. Embracing these changes successfully requires office planning. As a result of upgrading the workplace, companies are better able to meet shifting employee needs.

As mentioned, office planning involves taking actions that maximize space efficiency. It also boosts employee satisfaction as well as creativity in the workplace. Surroundings should inspire and motivate office staff, while giving them places to collaborate with colleagues or work alone.

Office planning considers the desired work atmosphere. A company’s choice of furniture, the floor plan, and décor create a specific vibe and reflect its core values. Staff should also have access to technology and equipment to enable them to perform their tasks efficiently.

What are the benefits of office planning?

Downsizing the office may be practical for employers who implement flexible work arrangements. The role of the workplace is altered when fewer staff come into the office; collaborative spaces may be necessary for group projects that take place when employees meet face-to-face.

Energy-efficiency and space optimization are just two of the many advantages of office planning. Other benefits include improvement in the employee experience, a focus on collaboration and teamwork, attracting and retaining talent, and increased cost reductions. Workers’ physical and mental health consequently improve, too.

What are the steps in office planning?

1. Analyze the existing office layout

A company must know how its office is currently being utilized before starting to plan. Determine how many employees come into the office each day and the type of workspace they prefer. Analyze how staff use furniture; some may feel more productive sitting on the sofa instead of a desk.

Determine the workspace’s capacity as a part of the initial phases of planning. Know how many employees the office must accommodate. Then consider how teams may be served; options include hot desks, open floor plans, individual workstations, desk neighborhoods, or flexible workspaces.

2. Involve employees in the office planning

Providing office staff with the ideal work conditions enhances productivity and well-being, which are crucial for the overall performance of the company. Create open and honest communication channels to learn how employees feel about working in particular spaces and what is lacking.

3. Take into account workplace values and culture

Making a positive impact on the environment may be an important part of an organization’s workplace culture. If so, introduce sustainability practices into the office planning to reflect the company’s core values. An office that echoes workplace culture drives employee loyalty.

4. Create collaboration spaces and quiet zones

An office may prioritize collaboration between employees. Office planning allows for collaboration spaces. Also factor in quiet spaces for staff who work alone. Ideally, place the collaboration spaces and quiet zones far apart from each other so that noise from the former does not affect the latter.

5. Bring in plants to inspire productivity

Inspiring employee efficiency is easily achieved by introducing plants into the work environment. Greenery has profound impact on improving productivity. Harness the power of plants by bringing in a few potted plants and lining them on the windowsill or clustering them in a corner of the office.

6. Design a healthy work environment

Design a workspace that promotes employees’ mental and physical health. Protect physical health by following the Occupational Health and Safety guidelines. Consider investing in ergonomic furniture. Focus on the air quality in the office. Companies might even dedicate a room to sports activities.

Enhance mental health by making subtle changes, like introducing more natural light into the office space. Establish more spaces for social interactions that boost feelings of community. The workplace should not trigger stress and anxiety but foster well-being and creativity.

7. Factor in future growth

Companies are typically focused on development and expansion. If growth is a foreseeable part of the organization, it’s important that the office planning creates the right environment to meet demands. Incorporate emerging trends and the technology staff use to avoid ending up with an obsolete space.

Creating a work environment that fosters productivity can be achieved with office planning. Incorporate design elements, like natural light, open floor plans, collaboration spaces, plants, and multipurpose work areas. A thriving work area should help employees feel connected and boost their creativity.

Introduce the future trends of work to keep the office staff happy and productive. This may mean relocating to a new building altogether. When a company relocation is on the horizon, choose Chicago Office Movers to make it happen on time, within budget, and with the least amount of stress.

We are an experienced commercial mover that has helped several prestigious universities and major corporations move. Our dedication to exceptional customer service has earned us consistently high ratings. Moving crews are licensed, trained, and background-checked to give you a seamless relocation experience.

Companies on the move have little time to handle the packing and unpacking. Leave these tasks to the trained professionals at Chicago Office Movers. Your office possessions will be handled carefully and loaded onto our trucks featuring lift gates, air-ride suspensions, and climate-controlled spaces.

As a trusted office mover, our specialists offer numerous conveniences, including helping companies plan their relocation. We offer short- and long-term storage options, insurance and service contracts, and add-on services. Crews are experienced in moving a range of goods, like sensitive IT systems, fragile antiques, and bulky office furniture.

Whether your company is moving locally, long-distance, or internationally, Chicago Office Movers is available to help you reach greener pastures. Minimize downtime by letting us handle your relocation from beginning to end. Obtain a free quote by calling our Elk Grove Village, Illinois, office today.

Relocating to greener pastures requires a star-studded announcement, one that gives current and potential customers news about where the business is headed. Let's face it, announcing a relocation of your business can be stressful. There are many things to consider before sending out an official statement, including the effect it will have on your business and clients, employees, vendors, and partners.

Announcing the relocation of the business can be done in several ways, and here are a few that deserve mention. By following these steps, you can reach out to your customers, clients, vendors, and partners in an effective way to let them know about the move and explain any possible changes that may happen.

1. Notify employees

Employees should hear about the relocation first. After all, employees are the backbone of the business, keeping it running and functioning in the most optimal way possible. The staff should ideally hear about the move at the same time, such as at a breakfast or lunch meeting.

Let the staff know the reason behind the move, whether it is to upgrade the facility or be closer to a talent pool. Provide a physical document listing important details about the move: location address, move date, moving company contact person, and instructions for how to prepare.

Engaging employees helps boost morale. Show them how the new location will benefit them; perhaps the new workspace will be closer to their homes, public transportation, or restaurants. If the move is long distance, give the staff details of their relocation package.

2. Inform customers and business contacts

Letting customers know about the new business location can be done in a few ways. An email newsletter can inform them of the new address, reasons for the move, hours of operation, and other pertinent information; however, emails can get lost in spam folders or accidentally deleted.

A surefire way to notify existing customers and business contacts is to mail them a postcard containing all the relevant details, including a note about doing business in the new location. In order to cover all the bases, send both a virtual announcement and a physical one.

Be sure to contact VIP clients directly, before making a public announcement of the business relocation. Personally calling important clients who have made large purchases shows them how much their business is valued and that a continued business relationship is appreciated.

Announcement letters should contain the following: the new business address with a map of the location, hours of operation and phone number (even if they stay the same), the company website and email addresses, and contact information in case clients have questions.

A few business clients may be nervous about the company’s upcoming move. It can be reassuring to them to offer the contact information, such as email and phone number, of a designated move coordinator who will respond to their concerns and answer any questions.

3. Update the company website

All digital properties should be utilized to announce the company relocation. Create an attractive banner announcing the move and position it on the company’s homepage. Include the move date and a positive reason for moving. Keep the banner on the website for at least six months.

4. Write blogs announcing the move

Well before the move date, post a blog containing details about the upcoming move. In the blog, emphasize how the move will benefit clients instead of writing about what the company is going through. Clients want the security of knowing the business will be there for them after the move.

Rather than post just one blog, write multiple blogs about the upcoming relocation. Use the blogs as an opportunity to drum up excitement about what’s ahead for the business and how the innovations will benefit customers. Blogs can even be utilized to recharge the company brand.

5. Utilize social media

The eye-catching banner announcing the move on the company website should also be posted on the company’s social media sites, which may include Facebook, Twitter, and any other online platforms. As on the website, the banner should remain on the social sites for six months.

6. Advertise

Radio and print ads announcing the relocation should only be utilized if the company has a proven track record for reaching customers through these media outlets. If choosing print media ads, keep them running with information about the new business location for at least six months.

7. Keep communications positive

While the days and weeks surrounding the relocation can be stressful, it’s important that all announcements regarding the move be kept positive. An optimistic tone is essential even if the move is unexpected, undesired, or is prompted by less than lackluster circumstances.

Take the opportunity to add to the announcements how customers will benefit. Advantages that can come with a relocation include upgraded facilities or new service offerings. Consider offering special promotions either before the move occurs or after it is complete.

Following the above checklist ensures that everyone involved with the business, from employees to clients and partners, are well aware of the upcoming move and fully prepared. Relocating companies can be assured they will not lose their valued existing customers.

Moving to a New Office?

Before announcing the move, company leaders must hire a reputable mover to handle the relocation from start to finish. One commercial mover that business leaders count on is Chicago Office Movers. We are equipped with skilled movers and protective equipment to ensure a seamless move.

Our licensed and background-checked moving crews are experienced in handling all aspects of a corporate relocation. We will plan the move as well as pack, load, and unpack all company goods safely and efficiently. Boxes and crates are provided to protect fragile items.

Chicago Office Movers’ trucks are climate controlled and feature lift gates and air-ride suspensions to fully safeguard all company property. Our trucks are equipped with tracking equipment, so customers can track the move throughout the process. Rest assured that your items will be handled with care.

Our long list of satisfied clients, like Northwestern University and Alcatel Lucent, speak to our commitment to excellence. Leaders of companies both large and small find our budget-friendly and efficient office relocation services to be exactly what they are looking for.

Whether your upcoming relocation is local, long distance or international, choose Chicago Office Movers. We offer comprehensive moving services, from storage options to insurance and service contracts. Call our Chicago, Illinois, office for a free estimate and take your business to greener pastures.

Contact us for your upcoming local, long distance or international move at 312-244-2246 (CHI-CAGO).

Business is booming, and a quaint office in a bustling business community is in the works. While seemingly straightforward, renting an office requires more than picking a prime location and signing on the dotted line. Rather, first-time office renters are encouraged to consider these important tips.

Renting an office space adds legitimacy to the business. The ideal office space is one that gives the business plenty of room to grow. The right office space also promotes the brand to potential visitors, customers, and partners. Employees feel proud and productive working in an accommodating space.

By the time the decision to rent an office is made, it’s clear that the space is necessary. A home office, virtual office, or coworking space do not meet business demands. Rather, a physical location gives the business a verified Google listing and increases visibility in local search results.

Tip 1: Create a budget

Every business investment begins with a budget and renting an office space is no different. Be flexible when creating a budget for an office space. Compromising the quality of an office space for the sake of staying under budget is not recommended. Overspending is equally important to avoid.

Renting a low-priced office space in a building that is falling apart sends the message to potential customers and visitors that the business is struggling. On the other hand, spending lavishly on a building space leads to unwanted financial stresses. Prepare a flexible budget and stay within it.

Tip 2: Determine space requirements

Companies have different needs when it comes to space requirements. Geographic location, industry, and the company itself play major roles in how much space a business requires. An entrepreneur will find a private office sufficient, while an enterprise company may need large workspaces that accommodate hundreds of employees.

Factors, like future growth, influence the office space requirements. Consider whether or not the business is expected to grow during the course of the lease. A company that is projected to expand must determine how many square feet per person will be necessary in the next few years.

Tip 3: Assess included amenities

An ideal office space caters to not only guests but to the employees working onsite. A fully functional space allows staff members the opportunity to be productive. Examples of amenities include fiber internet, onsite management, copiers and scanners, on-demand conference rooms, and mail service.

A break room or small kitchen will be one to which employees can run to for a cup of coffee or a snack. Expect productivity to increase when staff members are not forced to make trips to the local coffeehouse whenever they need a jolt of caffeine.

Tip 4: Consider accessibility

When eyeing potential office spaces, consider how far employees will have to commute to work. Or, choose an office that is close to public transportation. An onsite bike rack may be appreciated by staff who bike to work. Employees will be equally grateful for nearby coffee shops and restaurants.

Another important yet often overlooked consideration is access to plentiful parking. Prevent employees from the hassle of hunting for parking each workday. Nearby parking helps staff arrive at the office on time. In fact, a dedicated parking area is a major advantage.

Tip 5: Understand the lease

Understanding the terms of the lease starts with examining it from top to bottom. Be aware of flexibility in the terms, such as discounts for signing a longer lease. A one- or two-year contract can be beneficial to established businesses, while a shorter lease is appealing for evaluating satisfaction levels.

Some landlords may not allow office tenants to perform major renovations, such as tearing down walls or completely changing the appearance of the office. While customizing an office space is desirable, find out what is allowed before signing the lease. Otherwise, the company could be charged for damages.

Lease terms are significant, so it is recommended to have a commercial real estate attorney review it. Also critical, especially to growing businesses, is to lease a space with room to grow. It’s impractical to sign a three-year lease and outgrow it within the first year.

Tip 6: Choose a prime location

Location needs differ among companies. Choosing a location in a prime business district, for instance, can drive immediate recognition and project an image of longstanding success. Find a spot that is near highways and public transportation to make it easier for clients to travel to the business.

Tip 7: Ask about security

Building security is of utmost importance to employees and equipment. Ask how the building is secured. Security measures may include a security guard, manned entryways, or after-hours security. Learn about keycard access, security cameras, and safety procedures enforced during an emergency.

Work with a Commercial Mover

A final tip for first-time office renters is partnering with a commercial mover that is reputable, affordable and has a stellar reputation for excellence, such as Chicago Office Movers. Given our decades of experience with commercial moves, we will ensure your office relocation runs as smoothly as possible.

Our budget-friendly moves are performed by licensed, background checked and union movers. Corporate clients receive consistent, top-notch and customized services from our dedicated moving crews. We have successfully handled local, long-distance and international relocations of companies both large and small.

Chicago Office Movers’ services are comprehensive. We offer short- and long-term storage, paperwork storage, and add-on services to ensure satisfaction. Our moving trucks feature lift gates, air-ride suspensions and are climate controlled to keep your office goods secure during transport.

Our dedicated crews have safely moved a range of office equipment, from fragile antiques to IT systems and science lab equipment. Packing and unpacking are optional services. Companies that work with us also receive plenty of help with planning their office relocation.

As a first-time office renter, you’ll need an experienced office mover behind you to ensure the most stress-free moving experience possible. You’ll receive this benefit and many more when you work with Chicago Office Movers. Give our Chicago, Illinois, office a call today for a free estimate.