Declutter for a Cleaner Workplace

A clean and well-organized work environment can say a lot about a business. And while janitorial services might play an essential role in keeping a building dirt and dust-free, other factors may detract from accomplishing those objectives. Clutter is one of those factors.

According to research conducted by Princeton University’s Neuroscience Institute, and reported by Harvard Business Review (HBR), clutter can distract workers, may contribute to stress, and is often considered visually unappealing. The result may negatively impact on the overall perception of a business.
The research further uncovered that when participants eliminated clutter from their workspace, they experienced enhanced focus, improved information processing, and a boost in productivity.

So, how can you create a more productive and organized work environment that enhances your company’s image? Begin with a plan to declutter your workplace.

Create a Plan to Declutter

A janitorial services provider typically focuses on sweeping floors, emptying trash, and wiping down surfaces. However, a comprehensive cleaning plan also involves your own team’s participation in keeping the workplace clean and organized. After all, a cluttered environment may make it more difficult for your janitorial services team to perform their cleaning.

Therefore, get a buy-in from your team and ask them to help set up the right cadence and processes to organize their spaces and common areas. Gather them around the conference table, create a committee, or set up a suggestion box to get their feedback on the amount of time that should be reserved to address their desk area and to decide which items can be disposed of, recycled, or stored elsewhere.

Once timing has been established, communicate to all your employees the positive impacts decluttering will have on team morale and business overall. Lead by example, encourage collaboration, and provide resources needed for them to be successful in keeping spaces clutter-free.

Your Physical Workspace

Start with a focus on the physical surroundings of your office. Look to reduce papers, file folders, and piles of assorted items, which can be distracting and make it difficult to prioritize tasks.

1. Sort through and shred or recycle paper and magazines that are no longer needed.
2. Digitize files to reduce paper clutter.
3. Add storage solutions such as drawer organizers, file cabinets, or shelves to keep essential items accessible and arranged.

Your Digital Workspace

While physical decluttering is essential, digital clutter is just as important. Just as papers can pile up on your desk, files can accumulate on your computer or in your email inbox, leading to a chaotic digital environment. A disorganized computer slows down your ability to find important files, respond to emails promptly, or keep track of projects.

To combat digital clutter, start by organizing your computer’s desktop.

1. Create folders to categorize your files and remove anything that is unnecessary.
2. Unsubscribe from newsletters or alerts that you no longer need.
3. Organize important emails into labeled folders for easy access.

An organized and clean digital workspace may lead to faster decision-making, improved focus, and a decrease in wasted time.

Why declutter?

The benefit of an uncluttered workspace extends beyond productivity. When someone walks into a clean office, they are immediately in a space that feels calm and organized. This can have a positive effect on your employees and visitors alike. A clean workspace may foster a sense of control and order, while also helping to reduce stress and increase your capacity to manage multiple tasks.

Commercial cleaning services go beyond the responsibility of your janitorial services provider. To keep your spaces clean, enlist your entire organization to participate. Everyone should tackle both their physical and digital environments. When a clean and decluttered space is prioritized, you set your office up for long-term success that may help with productivity, mental clarity, and a better impression of your business.

If your commercial cleaning services provider is not helping you to see the big picture of a clean and organized workplace, contact your local Vanguard Cleaning Systems® area franchise business by requesting a complimentary consultation and a quote tailored to your business environment.

About the Vanguard Cleaning Systems® Brand
Founded in 1984, the Vanguard Cleaning Systems® organization is built upon over 2,500 independently owned and operated franchised commercial cleaning businesses, which are licensed and supported by an Area Franchise network of more than 50 independent regional offices throughout North America. Vanguard® franchised commercial cleaning businesses service over 15,000 businesses, healthcare companies, educational facilities, and non-profit organizations.