You are a knucklehead if you think employees just want to have fun!
September 04, 2015
- Employees are unique human beings with a range of goals, wants, needs and motivations.
- Creating a work environment that fosters feelings of wellbeing is a proven driver of workplace productivity and a reduction in absenteeism and turnover.
Here are three critical elements to include in your workspace to attract and retain the talented employees you need to reach your business goals.
1) Design a physical space for success by including diverse and useful spaces. Employees will be more productive when they have a variety of options suited to accomplishing necessary tasks. In your happy workplace, include quite space and collaboration space. Features like desks that allow employees to work standing up or comfortable seating for working on mobile devices increase both morale and productivity. Don’t forget to include space for exercise and/or meditation where stressed out employees can recharge their batteries.
2) Incorporate elements like natural light and green plants that increase happiness and enhance physical wellbeing. Studies show that exposure to natural light improved the sleep patterns of subjects, making them more productive. Green plants in office environment improve air quality, reduce noise, decrease absenteeism and improve both creativity and productivity.
3) Use interior finishes and furnishings to promote physical and mental well-being. Select paint colors that keep the space bright and relaxing. Utilize low VOC (solvents that can cause a variety of negative health effects) paints and finishes whenever possible. Don’t forget that furniture and flooring can emit VOC’s when making those choices.
These three guidelines parallel the Triple Bottom Line approach – creating a business that enhances the lives of workers, respects the environment and reaps the rewards of increased profitability as a result.
We’d love to hear about your experiences with enhancing fun in your workplace.
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