If yours is a small workplace, talk to people individually. Otherwise, run a quick survey to identify people’s requirements and/or preferences. Either way, ask the following types of questions:
- Does your existing chair work, ie is it comfortable for you, and would you prefer to keep it?
- If you had an option of a sit stand desk, would you alternate regularly between sitting and standing? Moving regularly between sitting and standing is important to reduce static sitting positions and increased muscle tension.
iii. Do you need a quieter space for phone calls if your calls are of a confidential or sensitive nature? (If you are considering buying acoustic panels or booths)
Finally keep an up to date inventory of your furniture/equipment
It’s useful to keep stock of your items, for example, you may have some deeper seated chair models specifically for taller staff members. If a person leaves who is using one of these chair, often someone else without that particular need grabs it, simply because they like the look (or functionality) of it. However, it’s often the wrong size for them, and so this in itself not only deprives you of a specialised chair, but also, can be harmful for their posture.
Take care of your staff
Make sure that people with particular requirements have what they need first.
Consider surprising people, once you have the reception area looking good, start in the back room!