14 Strategies to Help You Stay Focused in an Open Office

Nearly 70% of business owners in the US have embraced an open office design, despite numerous studies that show they reduce productivity and increase distractions. Their popularity may be because they’re economical, and more employees can occupy less space.

While the absence of walls may be handy for learning and collaboration with your peers, what do you do when you have assignments that require complete focus? Try these strategies. They help you to focus on your work.

Steps to Take on Your Own:

Wear headphones. Sometimes the obvious solution is the most effective one. Bring earbuds or headphones to work. Your employer may even be willing to share the cost of noise-canceling devices.
Post a busy signal. If your office still needs to get a system in place, create your version of a do-not-disturb sign. It could be your headphones or a character you can place on your computer.
Lower your voice. When one employee starts speaking louder, there’s an inclination for everyone else to contribute to the noise level. Monitor yourself to be sure you’re using your quieter, indoor voice, especially when you’re on the phone.
Stay home. If your employer permits you to work remotely, take advantage of the opportunity for flexibility. Schedule protracted phone calls and assignments that require close attention for the days you’ll be at home.
Accept interruptions. Try to let go of frustration and anxiety. Changing the way you respond to interruptions helps too.
Gather your thoughts. At the same time, distractions have an actual cost. One famous study found that it takes 23 minutes to get back on track. You can speed up that process by assessing your activities and planning your next moves.

Steps to Take with Your Colleagues:

Designate quiet hours. It could be a few hours in the morning or afternoon on certain days of the week. You and your coworkers can agree on blocking out time for modest tasks.
Book a conference room. Some companies encourage employees to move around when they need more privacy. You can use an empty meeting room or temporary offices to close a door.
Send a message. Instant messaging apps let you carry on some conversations silently. If you need to talk face-to-face, consider going somewhere out of earshot.
Batch communications. If you and your coworkers are overwhelmed by emails and voice messages, try reducing the frequency. Keep a running list of subjects you need to discuss and address them all in one or two daily communications.
Shield your eyes. Some employers limit the line of sight with oversized plants, privacy screens, and curved computer monitors. Visual noise counts, too, when you’re sidetracked by watching what your office neighbors are doing.
Turn down the lights. Neutral colors and softer lights also decrease the urge to keep looking up. If it’s time to redecorate the office, you should work with a designer who can suggest options encouraging psychological privacy.
Relocate office equipment. Try to position work areas away from noisy equipment. Copiers and vending machines rarely make great roommates.
Talk with your boss. Your boss has an interest in your performance too. Be creative and proactive about offering suggestions to help you and your coworkers be productive.

You can make an open office less chaotic and distracting. Take steps on your own and with your employer to create more privacy and quiet time for concentrating on your work.