BEAT THE CUBICLE BLUES

Workstation employees tend to commiserate over the shared experience of workstation life. It’s no wonder why the recent song “My Cubicle” has skyrocketed into popularity across the online world.

A parody of the popular hit “You’re Beautiful” by James Blunt, “My Cubicle” has all the crooning lamentations of an employee whose untapped talent could be unleashed if only he weren’t locked up behind those tall partitions, with no access to sunlight or human contact. The song has created so much buzz that amateur movie makers have posted accompanying video parodies online. A few of these videos have likely made their way around your office e-mail.

With all this fuss, it’s easy to understand why employers get a wee bit squeamish when encountering employees’ attitudes toward workstations. But such shared commiseration also can be used to broach a larger discussion with employees about what they — and the company — can do to improve workstation environments.

START A WORKSTATION IMPROVEMENT COMMITTEE

This will allow workstation employees to spearhead improvement ideas. Ensure management also serves on the committee to show company support.

GIVE WORKSTATION STAFF A DECORATING BUDGET

Hold an annual contest with prizes for most popular workstation designs. This encourages employees to personalize their workstation, helps promote greater workstation pride and boosts morale.

HOLD A COMPANYWIDE WORKSTATION WORKSHOP

Focus on the dos and don’ts to improve the environment for those who work in workstations. Topics can include tips to reduce office noise, curb unwanted office aromas or help boost co-worker privacy. Ask workstation employees to lead the workshop sessions to help gain their support for the initiative.