Mobile Work: Flexible and Productive

Work Where You Want – New Paths in the World of Work

Imagine being able to work wherever you feel most comfortable and productive. The pandemic has shown that flexible working doesn't have to remain a dream. While some companies are calling their employees back to the office, flexible working models offer significant benefits that are worth exploring.

Flexible Working and Productivity

One key takeaway from the pandemic is the high productivity in home offices. The assumption that productive work can only happen in the office is increasingly being questioned. Efficient work can happen anywhere—whether in the office or while gazing out the window at home. If employers insist on presence as a measure of productivity, they often underestimate the intrinsic motivation of their employees.

Innovative Concepts: Workation and Tiny Offices

New working models like workation and tiny offices offer exciting alternatives to the traditional office. A fascinating example is the six-month rural life experiment, “Trial Living in the Countryside,” funded by the Bavarian Ministry of Finance and Home Affairs. Here, 20 city dwellers move to the countryside and work in a co-office while contributing to the community through social projects. Such initiatives not only boost productivity but also foster a sense of community.

Discover Your Ideal Workplace

Everyone has their own preferences when it comes to the ideal workplace. Whether it's the bustling city life, the quiet atmosphere of the countryside, the dynamic environment of a new work café, or the peace of your home office—it’s worth trying out different environments to see what best suits your working style.

For those who appreciate the flexibility of home offices but need a clear separation between work and personal life, tiny offices could be an ideal solution. Imagine a small office, perhaps in a converted garden shed. A tiny office just a few steps from your coffee machine but still a dedicated space solely for work. Sounds great, right? Of course, you need the space for it first—but hey, one can dream!

Even setting up a separate workspace in your apartment can work wonders for your productivity and work-life balance.

Home Office: How to Convince Your Boss

Want to convince your employer of the benefits of home office? The key is to focus on the shared goal: efficient and high-quality work. A well-planned pilot project could work wonders. It not only shows in practice how effective remote work can be but also provides tangible results that speak for themselves.

A flexible working model that is particularly popular is the 60:40 split between office and home office. This balance allows employees to enjoy the best of both worlds—the structure and social interaction in the office, and the quiet and focus at home. Such models are not only attractive to existing teams but also make your company more appealing to potential new talent.

By implementing flexible work structures, your company demonstrates innovation and employee orientation, which can boost morale and, ultimately, productivity. So why not take the first step and open the door to a more flexible working world?

Rethinking the Workplace: The Office as a Campus

More and more companies are turning their offices into vibrant campuses where colleagues become friends. But this close-knit community isn’t for everyone. An innovative solution gaining traction is the idea of opening company spaces like the cafeteria to the public. This approach, made famous by Beiersdorf and its work café, shows how companies can actively respond to the needs of their workforce.

To remain competitive in the war for talent, it is essential that companies not only create workplaces but also living spaces that respect and support the needs of all employees.

Flexible Solutions for Modern Workplaces

Optimizing the use of existing office spaces remains an exciting challenge. It is crucial that these spaces are adapted to the needs of the employees to create a productive and enjoyable work environment. Shared offices and co-working spaces in rural areas, supported by initiatives like the CoWorkLand cooperative, offer flexible and appreciative solutions.

These modern workspaces allow employees to work in an environment that fosters creativity and collaboration. At the same time, they offer companies the flexibility to use office spaces efficiently and optimize costs. By supporting such initiatives, companies can not only better utilize their spaces but also provide their employees with more freedom and satisfaction.

Make the Most of Commute Time: Tips for Your Time on the Go

If you still need to commute to the office and face a longer journey, your daily commute can still be productive and enjoyable. Here are a few creative ideas on how to make the most of your commute to learn, relax, or simply become more efficient.

1. Audiobooks and Podcasts: Why not get a little smarter on your way to work? Load up audiobooks or podcasts on your smartphone. Whether you want to dive into expert topics or simply be entertained, there are countless ways to make good use of the time.
2. Learn a Language: Use the time to learn a new language or brush up on your language skills. Apps like Duolingo or Babbel make it easy and fun, and regular practice during your daily commute can work wonders.
3. Organize and Plan: Use the quiet of the train to plan your day. Update your to-do list, organize your thoughts, and set goals. This way, you start the day organized or can unwind after work knowing that everything important is already sorted.
4. Meditation and Mindfulness: Even if it’s hectic around you, you can find a moment of peace. Meditation or mindfulness exercises can help reduce stress and mentally prepare you for the day. Apps like Headspace offer short sessions that are perfect for your commute.
5. Networking: Why not use the commute to maintain your professional network? Check your social media feeds, comment, connect, and stay active. This way, you stay up to date and can simultaneously improve your professional opportunities.
6. Be Creative: Sometimes, the best ideas come when you just switch off. Bring a notebook with you and doodle, write, or plan projects. Use the time for your creativity!

Flexible Working Models as the Key to Productivity and Satisfaction

The world of work is changing and offering numerous innovative concepts that can increase both productivity and employee satisfaction. It’s up to companies to recognize these changes and promote flexible, modern working models. This way, everyone can work where they feel most comfortable and productive.