If managers use the conference room for every reprimand, a closed door will come to signal trouble. The conference room will lose its purpose as a safe place for confidential conversations. When space is tight, a single room could provide phones, private meeting space and resources if needed, notes Kearny. Employees also need to make their cubicles places where they can work without fear of constant interruption. Hebert says that doorbells may be another solution.
People have to ring the bell before walking in.
You could also give everyone a spinning wheel to post in front of the cubicle that says we re open or we re closed. Or, ask colleagues to float paper planes in before approaching. By offering a variety of options, HR not only helps employees manage their time and reduce interruptions, but also signals to them that although they don t have doors, their time and work are valued. Andrea C. Poe is a freelance writer based in Annapolis, Md., who specializes in human resource and management issues.