By David Neeser |
Having fun in the workplace is an important component of occupational wellness. While play can boost productivity and general wellness, a sterile, dull and play-free working environment can – and are likely to – lead to an increased turnover of staff. Overworked staff are likely to take time out to have fun anyway; so a savvy employer will understand the positive effect of play on its staff and seek to include specific periods in the working day for such activities.
Many countries around the world understand the benefit of incorporating fun into the workplace. In some countries, health promotion boards offer grants to organizations, to encourage health, sports and physical therapy programs in the workplace. Asian and European countries have sponsored corporate sports teams for generations.
In the US, the “dot com” companies seem to do the best job of making their workplace fun and productive. While fringe benefits aren’t always affordable, accessible or even realistic for most companies, there are easy ways to make your workplace more fun without great cost or creating an unprofessional atmosphere.
One of the biggest challenges of staff engaging in non-work activities, however, is that they may disturb other employees nearby who are trying to work. Organizations should consider separate lounge space where staff can switch off from work without impacting other employees.
Companies looking for a more traditional way to inject fun into the office might want to consider teambuilding activities that can be held in the office facility or a nearby location. Not only will coworkers get a breather from their normal routine, they will learn more about each other and develop a healthy camaraderie.
Organizing formal activities during staff breaks for employees is an option. Sports competitions, recreational activities, yoga, Pilates or fitness sessions can all help staff to let off steam and boost concentration levels. Formalizing such activities will not only encourage team building among staff, but will also reduce the potential to waste work time when employees are least productive.
Remember also that many staff will only participate in organized activities when they have appropriate changing or shower facilities. Few people want to engage in physical activity in their work clothes and then sit in sweaty clothes in the office for the rest of the afternoon.
In any case, a little workplace fun can go a long way to improve morale. It isn’t very difficult to make the workplace more fun, and you will certainly see results if you or your company make the effort to liven up the daily routine.
References:
1. www.ihrsa.org
2. www.welcoa.org
3. www.ssc.gov.sg/publish/Corporate/en/our_services0/grants/workplace_health_.html
For more info call David Neeser at 775-473-0801.
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