Interaction's Thrivalism

Outside the Office: Exploring the Woodland Workplace

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Episode notes

Podcast Show Notes: Outside the Office - Exploring The Woodland Workplace.
Toby Brown in Conversation with Tom Vaughton of Varn Search Marketing.

Intro:

  • Host: Toby Brown, Head of Marketing, Interaction
  • Guest: Tom Vaughton, Founder and MD of Varn Search Marketing

Introduction:

  • Toby introduces the episode and his guest, Tom Vaughton, from Varn Search Marketing Agency.
  • Toby highlights how impressed he was with Tom's innovative approach to workplace well-being during the lockdown.

Transition to Woodland Office:

  • Tom shares that they are in their woodland office, a unique and inspiring workspace surrounded by nature.
  • Toby acknowledges the unconventional nature of having a woodland office for a marketing agency and expresses his curiosity about the impact it has had on the team and business.

Creating the Woodland Office:

  • Tom explains that the idea of the woodland office evolved due to COVID-19 and their belief in making work enjoyable and beneficial.
  • He emphasizes that the team played a crucial role in shaping the concept, offering ideas, and providing feedback.
  • Tom mentions that the journey included trial and error, with some ideas not working out.
  • Toby asks about challenges, and Tom discusses initial timeline expectations and the logistical issues of setting up the woodland office during the pandemic.

Balancing Freedom and Structure:

  • Toby inquires about the team's work setup and flexibility.
  • Tom outlines their flexible work model, with one day a week working from home and the rest being a mix of woodland and brick-and-mortar office work.
  • Tom emphasizes the importance of creating a professional and engaging workspace in the woods.

Benefits and Productivity:

  • Toby delves into the topic of productivity and asks Tom how they measure it.
  • Tom explains their billable hours model and how they track scheduled work versus delivered work.
  • Tom shares that they have been more productive in the woods and have even saved money on recruitment fees.
  • Toby and Tom discuss the impact of the natural environment on productivity and creativity.

Well-Being During COVID:

  • Toby mentions how Tom's company focused on employee well-being during the pandemic, including longer lunch breaks to encourage outdoor walks.
  • Tom highlights the importance of access to natural light and fresh air for well-being and productivity.

Looking to the Future:

  • Toby inquires about Tom's plans for the woodland office's future.
  • Tom discusses plans for more insulated structures and breakout pods for winter.
  • Tom mentions the possibility of creating workspaces in other inspiring locations, like by the beach.

Balancing Responsibilities:

  • Toby acknowledges that owning a woodland comes with responsibilities and asks how it affects their planning.
  • Tom shares that they think long-term and consider sharing the space with organizations like the Children's Hospice South West.

Reflections and Advice:

  • Toby asks if Tom wishes they had done anything differently in the process.
  • Tom expresses the desire to have started the woodland office sooner.
  • Toby inquires about the potential for other businesses to adopt a similar approach.
  • Tom advises businesses to view their office as an investment and encourages open communication with employees to expl

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