Although I run warm most of the time, I know many who have worn their fair share of sweaters in cold offices, so I was interested when this study showed women’s productivity increases when office temperatures are about 3ºC warmer than the typical setting of 21ºC. The temperature of the office has a more significant effect on our productivity than we realize.

Standard office temperatures were established back in the 1960s when most workers were average-sized, middle-aged men wearing business suits. Women tend to be smaller and therefore have lower metabolic rates. This means women often feel colder and their productivity may suffer.

It is not easy to maintain a temperature to suit everyone all the time. Here are some options that may help improve office productivity.

Rearrange Office Space

Open office spaces are notoriously drafty. Consider allowing workers to change desks seasonally so they are less (or more) affected by the ventilation system and/or sunlight from windows. Create zones such as lunch rooms or meeting rooms where workers can go to warm up or cool down depending on the season. Air vent deflectors and window shades can also be installed to improve employee comfort and increases their productivity.

Relax the Dress Codes

Consider adjusting the dress codes for the seasons. When you’re struggling to feel warm, you are more likely to make mistakes. Thus, in the wintertime, allow women to wear pantsuits and sweaters. Permit leggings and loafers instead of sheer pantyhose and heels.

• The same study that showed women’s productivity increases in warmer offices, showed that men’s productivity decreased. Therefore, in the summertime, allow men to forgo the jacket and tie by encouraging collared, short-sleeved shirts and lighter weight trousers. Where safety regulations permit, allow employees to wear more casual open-toe shoes like espadrilles and canvas-type shoes.

While these suggestions might mean increased heating in the colder months, it will mean less air conditioning in the warmer months. This may save operational costs in the long run. Not only that, by taking the comfort of employees into account, productivity will increase and that will have a positive effect on the bottom line.

Are you looking to boost productivity in your office? Contact us for a consultation or to book a workshop.