A recent blog post caught my attention Why having fun at work is important, as this idea is almost an oxymoron for many employers I’ve been associated with over the years. I share this with you as the article goes on to cite the research that clearly demonstrates fun workplaces have tangible benefits for the business, which translate into financial rewards for the company.
Some of these benefits include less employee absenteeism, higher levels of productivity and innovation, and better levels of customer service. Surely these are all goals that any business would want to explore? Interestingly the millennials (born between the early 1980’s and early 2000’s) are most interested in a fun workplace, but all groups want to have opportunity for quality socialising in the workplace – a simple and easy thing to do.
If you want to have the financial benefits that come from having a fun workplace, then here are three simple things, taken from the above blog article that you can do:
- Redefine your company culture
Try to create an atmosphere where employees can feel comfortable, express themselves, and collaborate with others.
- Understand what your employees want
Understand what passions your people have, and find a way to use them to bring your workforce together.
- Make monotonous activities more appealing
Staff may want some added excitement in other areas or activities, such as training, because this can be a rather boring exercise at the best of times.
These simple starting steps do require some careful thought, but the pay-off can be worth it. The Avondale Business School can advise your organisation on being effective in these areas – find out how by contacting Warrick Long at the Avondale Business School.
P: 02 4980 2168