LIBRARY

Workplace leadership resources for new managers

This page offers essential resources to help you build a strong foundation as a new workplace leader. Think of it as your toolkit for creating a workplace where people can do their best work—no fluff, just actionable advice.

 

three workplace managers
three workplace managers(1)

 

Starting a career as a workplace manager means stepping into a role with diverse responsibilities.

You’re not just overseeing spaces—you’re shaping how employees experience the office. Balancing operational efficiency with a positive work environment can be challenging, especially when you’re new to the field.

No matter where your focus lies, use this resource library for insights and inspiration. Select a broader topic from the menu on the left and explore our expert knowledge on the subject.

 

Starting a career as a workplace manager means stepping into a role with diverse responsibilities.

You’re not just overseeing spaces—you’re shaping how employees experience the office. Balancing operational efficiency with a positive work environment can be challenging, especially when you’re new to the field.

No matter where your focus lies, use this resource library for insights and inspiration. Select a broader topic from the menu on the left and explore our expert knowledge on the subject.

workplace manager
workplace manager
Office size & layout

➡️ Average Office Size: How Much Office Space Do You Need?

Determining the right amount of office space is essential to avoid unnecessary expenses or space constraints. But how much office space do you actually need?

This in-depth article breaks down the key factors that influence office size, covers industry standards for square footage per employee, and answers common questions—helping you make a well-informed decision tailored to your business needs.

➡️ How to Accommodate Your Growing Team in the Office Space You Have?

There are several ways to maximize your office space, even if your team is growing rapidly. Among them, hybrid work stands out as one of the most practical, cost-efficient, and employee-friendly solutions.

In this article, we’ll share best practices, a real-life success story, and helpful technology tools to support you in managing this effectively. If optimizing space while accommodating a growing team is on your radar, this piece is for you.

You can also watch a podcast episode we recorded on the topic:


➡️ 6 Types of Office Layouts: Engineer Them for Productivity

The design and layout of your office play a crucial role in boosting productivity—not just its size. In this short guide, we’ll explore six different types of office layouts and explain how to make the most of each one, regardless of your current workplace setup.

Office relocation

➡️ A Step-By-Step Office Move Checklist for Workplace Managers

Relocating an office is no small task. In fact, research shows that over 45% of people find moving more stressful than going through a divorce or raising kids.

Now, add the pressure of moving an entire office where the business's success depends on how well you plan, organize, and manage every detail. It's easy to see how things can quickly become overwhelming.

Successful office moves are all about effective planning. To help you, as a new workplace manager, stay organized and in control, we've created a detailed office move checklist broken into seven key phases. It guides you through exactly what to do before, during, and after the move so you can manage the entire process with confidence and ease.

Multiple offices

➡️ 8 Useful Tips for Managing Multiple Office Locations

As a new workplace manager, overseeing teams across different locations, time zones, and cultures can be both exciting and challenging. While managing multiple offices opens doors to new talent and markets, ensuring seamless communication, operational efficiency, and team cohesion can be complex.

In this article, we’ll explore eight best practices for mastering multi-location management. Consider this your roadmap to navigating the unique challenges and opportunities that come with managing a distributed workplace.

Return to office

➡️ Return to Office Policy: A Seamless Transition Guide

If your company is working to bring teams back under one roof, your role as a workplace manager is to develop and implement a return-to-office strategy that balances business goals with employee needs—coordinating office logistics, optimizing workspace design, and fostering a positive in-office experience.

To help you navigate this transition, we’ve created a comprehensive return-to-office policy guide. It compares three different RTO policy approaches, outlines best practices for implementation, and answers some of the most frequently asked questions—giving you the tools to manage the process effectively and thoughtfully.

➡️ How to Convert Return-to-Office Anxiety into Positive Change

The return to the office has been met with mixed emotions, causing anxiety for many employees. To explore how organizations can handle this transition constructively, we spoke with Bex Moorhouse, founder and director of Invigorate Spaces Ltd. With over 20 years of experience designing exceptional workplaces and well-being programs, she helps companies integrate well-being into their culture while attracting and retaining top talent.


➡️ Navigating the Return to Office: Workplace Leaders Share What's Working and What's Not

No one in the world is better equipped with the know-how about the "return to office" than people who've already done it. So, we spoke with experienced workplace managers to learn from their journeys. We asked what strategies worked, what challenges they faced, and how they managed to make the transition as smooth and efficient as possible.

Space management

➡️ Office Space Utilization: Best Practices for Workplace Efficiency

➡️ Office Space Optimization with YAROOMS Workplace Analytics

Inefficient use of office space can cost businesses tens of thousands of dollars each year—and for large global companies with multiple locations, the financial impact can be even greater. On top of that, poor space management can hinder employee productivity.

If boosting workspace efficiency is one of your goals, you’re in the right place. These articles break down the what and the how when it comes to maximizing office space utilization.

➡️ What To Do With Empty Office Space? 10 Brilliant Ways to Repurpose

If you’re a workplace manager looking for ways to repurpose empty or unused office space—or if you’ve recently optimized your office layout and have extra space to work with—here are ten practical ideas to help you make the most of it.

➡️ 7 Bad Office Space Management Habits You Need to Leave Behind

Believe it or not, even if you’re new to workplace management, you might already have some unhelpful habits. These could stem from preconceived notions or outdated practices carried over from the past. Here’s a quick reality check to help you spot ways you might be unintentionally hindering your workplace management—and how to get back on track.

Space & resource booking

➡️ Boost Employee Morale by Streamlining Access to Workplace Resources

The workplace of the future is no longer confined to fixed desks and rigid office layouts. With the rise of hybrid work models, where employees split time between home and the office, businesses face new challenges in managing workspace resources. Assigned desks are becoming obsolete, and office layouts must adapt to shifting schedules and diverse work styles.

To prevent frustration and maximize productivity, companies need smarter workspace management strategies. Implementing efficient booking systems and optimizing space usage can create a more collaborative, stress-free, and productive environment.

➡️ How to Prevent Double Bookings in Meeting and Conference Rooms

Imagine this: Two teams arrive at the same time, each with a valid booking for the same meeting room. Confusion ensues, productivity takes a hit, and frustration builds.

But it doesn’t have to be this way! In this article, we’ll share practical strategies to prevent double booking of meeting and conference rooms, keeping your workplace organized and stress-free.

➡️ The Complete Guide to Managing Desk Booking in Your Office

This guide aims to give you a solid understanding of desk booking, whether you're a facilities manager who's been at this game for a while or someone just dipping their toes into the world of flexible workspaces. We'll cover the basics and delve into advanced strategies, so by the end, you'll have the know-how to set up a dynamic, productive, and engaging work environment that suits your team's evolving needs.

Hybrid work

➡️ 7 Leadership Strategies for a Thriving Hybrid Work Culture

Building a thriving hybrid work culture requires intentional leadership that proactively addresses challenges like maintaining company culture, supporting employee development, and ensuring fair career progression. In this article, we outline seven effective leadership strategies workplace managers can adopt to create a thriving hybrid environment that balances organizational success with employee well-being.

➡️ Ground Rules for Building a Successful Hybrid and Remote Work Policy [+Template]

To succeed with a hybrid or remote work model, you need a clear, well-documented policy that outlines employee expectations and supports your company’s flexible work structure. To help you get started, we’ve created an easy-to-use template for a seamless implementation.

➡️ Poor Hybrid Work Performance: Location or Management Problem?

According to McKinsey, 58% of employees say their performance has increased in hybrid work models. And yet, across the world, companies are (still) calling people back into the office full-time, suggesting that data is not that well correlated with reality.

So, what is the truth, then? Is hybrid work performance related to location -- or is it a management problem?

Visitor management

➡️ Reception Management Essentials to Impress Every Visitor

Discover essential strategies and best practices to elevate your organization’s professionalism and leave a lasting impression on every visitor. From mastering effective communication to refining the finer details of your office ambiance, this article reveals actionable insights for transforming your reception area into a welcoming and professional space.

➡️ 6 Office Front Desk Problems & How to Solve Them With Visitor Management System

Imagine walking into an office building with no front desk to guide you. You'd likely feel lost or frustrated. Now, picture working in that building while dozens of visitors wander the halls daily, knocking on random doors—it would be total chaos.

That's why a well-managed front desk is essential. It serves as the first point of contact for visitors, clients, and employees, setting the tone for the entire office while ensuring smooth, organized operations. Here's a very practical guide on how to ensure it. 

➡️ Building Your Workplace Visitor Policy: A Comprehensive Guide

A clear workplace visitor policy is essential for creating a safe, welcoming, and well-organized office environment. It keeps confidential data secure, ensures visitors feel comfortable, and helps employees understand their roles in managing the visitor experience.

Without a solid visitor policy, you risk opening the door to confusion and chaos.

In this post, you’ll learn:

  • What a workplace visitor policy is
  • Why it’s essential
  • Key elements every great policy should include
  • How to create and implement yours
Workplace management software

➡️ Workplace Management Software: From Theory to Practice [With Real-Life Examples]

Let’s dive into the world of workplace management software (WMS)—from its core principles to real-life applications. We’ll break down the complexities of workplace management and show how WMS tools can streamline operations, improve communication, and boost productivity. Whether you’re an experienced professional looking to enhance your work environment or a beginner curious about workplace tech, this article has you covered. 

➡️ Changing Your Workplace Management Software Vendor

Are you a new workplace manager thinking about a software change? Sorry about that - we know it's complicated, costly, and time-consuming, but this guide will be for you if the time has come. 

➡️ Workplace Management Software Evaluation Checklist

Choosing new software is a major decision—not just because of the cost, but because it will become an essential tool used across your organization. That’s why evaluating the solution thoroughly before purchasing is crucial, ensuring it aligns with your company’s needs and delivers a strong return on investment.

Other workplace tech tools

➡️ The Rise of Workplace Experience Software

As companies work to create more engaging and satisfying work environments, many are turning to workplace experience software. This innovative technology goes beyond managing logistics and resources—it also supports building a positive, sustainable workplace culture.

But what exactly is workplace experience software, and what benefits can it bring to your organization? Let’s explore.

➡️ Beyond Directions: Wayfinding as a Workplace Experience Tool

Driving in foggy weather is frustrating at best and dangerous at worst.

The same goes for navigating an office without clear direction—you risk getting lost, wasting time, or missing important meetings. Now, imagine how confusing it could be for new employees or office visitors trying to find a desk, a meeting room, or even an emergency exit in a critical moment. A lack of clear navigation can cause delays, frustration, and even serious safety concerns. That's where wayfinding technology comes in.


➡️ A Guide to Fast & Simple Office Parking Booking

Office parking—is an essential part of daily work life, yet it is often plagued by inefficiency and frustration. Finding a parking spot can quickly become a stressful experience filled with honking horns, overcrowded lots, and poorly managed spaces.

But why start your day in parking chaos when you could enjoy an extra cup of coffee instead? Let’s simplify the hassle with fast, easy-to-use office parking booking solutions that make your mornings smoother and more productive.

➡️ Smart Office Revolution: How IoT Tech Enhances Efficiency, Reduces Costs, and Makes Workplaces More Sustainable

Imagine a workplace where everything works together seamlessly—spaces are optimized, energy consumption is minimized, and employee productivity reaches new heights. This isn’t just a distant dream; it’s the power of fully integrated IoT (Internet of Things) technology. By connecting devices and systems, IoT transforms offices into dynamic, efficient, and sustainable environments—and this future is closer than you think.

 

Sustainability

➡️ Workplace Leaders Share How They Cultivate Sustainability Mindset (And Why It's Worth the Effort)

Sustainability is key to driving a better, healthier, and more equitable future, as it involves making responsible decisions and actions that will benefit the environment and society in the long run. Almost all (90%) of businesses agree with this.

And yet, only 60% of them have a sustainability strategy in place.

What does it take to go from "yes, we need to do this" to "we're on it"? We dug a little and asked workplace leaders how they managed to build a culture of sustainability in their organizations, and here's what we found out.

➡️ Measuring Sustainability Performance: Metrics for Progress and Accountability

In an era where environmental and social issues are at the forefront of global consciousness, organizations are increasingly focusing on sustainability performance. It is no longer enough for companies to simply adopt sustainability initiatives; they must also measure and report their progress to demonstrate accountability. This article explores the importance of sustainability performance, the tools available for measuring and reporting it, and the key role technology plays in enhancing sustainability efforts.

➡️ Things You Can Do Today to Encourage Recycling in Your Office

Want your staff to recycle at work? Make it easy, fun, and meaningful. Employees already come to work ready to contribute and do their best—tapping into that same mindset can encourage eco-friendly habits. By simplifying the recycling process, adding a touch of engagement, and showing its impact, you can turn to recycle into a natural part of your office culture. Here are seven practical tips to help your team start recycling—and stick with it.

Safety & security

➡️ The Imperative of Safety Culture in the Workplace

Safety culture in the workplace is no longer just a buzzword passed around in meetings or a box to tick on compliance forms, but the heartbeat of every successful business. Today, a solid safety culture is essential to fostering trust, accountability and productivity in your work environment. 

But how did we get here and what can we do if we feel our protocols aren't ensuring enough safety in the workplace?

➡️ Boost Office Security: Expert Tips to Safeguard Your Workplace

In today’s digital age, workplace security goes beyond physical threats—cyber risks are equally, if not more, dangerous. Regularly updating security measures and staying ahead of technological advancements are essential to protecting your office. Being unprepared is a risk no business can afford.

In this article, we’ll explore the critical aspects of office security, share expert tips, and recommend essential tools every secure workplace should have.

➡️ Practical Ways to Improve Your Workplace Security Awareness

You’re a new workplace manager, focused on keeping things running smoothly, when you notice someone using a coworker’s laptop without permission—or see an unfamiliar person wandering through the office, glancing into workspaces.

These might seem like minor incidents, but they could be serious security risks. Would you know how to prevent them or ensure your team responds correctly?

In this guide, we’ll share practical strategies to help you spot potential risks, strengthen office protocols, and create a safer, more secure workplace.

Workplace management made simple

Ask us a question or watch a On-Demand Platform Tour
to see how YAROOMS can simplify your workplace management.

Workplace management made simple
 
Ask us a question or watch a On-Demand Platform Tour to see how YAROOMS can simplify your workplace management.
 
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