The average employee spends around 1,738 hours inside the workplace each year. For many, this routine can lead to boredom and lack of motivation. A study by the University of South Wales found that bored employees are twice as likely to leave their job within a year. When employees are not at their best, there can be a significant impact on productivity levels. As the saying goes, if you love what you do, you’ll never work a day in your life.
As a result, employers must find ways to make the workplace exciting again. There will be some trial and error, but eventually, you’ll find a method that works for the company and its employees. They will have to dedicate resources and time, but it will be worth it in the long run. Employee retention rates can improve, and your employees will have a newfound appreciation for the company.
You can make a few changes to the workplace to try and spice things up. Some of these may be easier, but they’re all worth considering.
Breakroom Amenities
Sometimes, all employees need is a well-deserved break. However, their current idea of rest inside the office is standing up and stretching. Employers must provide more significant breakroom amenities to let their employees relax and recharge. A few things that you can add to the space are:
- Comfortable furniture – Include sofas, recliners, or chairs with cushions.
- Television – Add a television for people to watch during their break. Employees can catch up on the news or their favorite shows.
- Table games – Adding a table game can create friendly competition among co-workers. Games like foosball, ping pong, or air hockey are perfect.
- Vending machines – Most offices have vending machines, but they don’t always offer healthy options. Make sure that your vending machines have healthy snacks like fruits and nuts. You can also include beverages like juices and water.
- Employee lounge – This is a separate room where employees can go to relax. The space should have comfortable furniture, television, and games.
These are only a few ideas that you can use to make your breakroom more inviting. You can also include a kitchen area with appliances like microwaves and refrigerators.
Flexible Work Arrangements
The traditional workweek is no longer the standard. Many employers are offering more flexible work arrangements to accommodate their employees. Some of these arrangements include:
- Compressed workweeks – Employees work for longer hours but have more days off. For example, they may work four 10-hour days instead of five 8-hour days.
- Flextime – Employees have more control over their start and end time. They can come in early and leave early or vice versa.
- Remote work – Employees don’t have to come into the office. They can work from home or any other location.
Employers must offer these arrangements as an option for their employees. However, they must also consider the company’s needs before making decisions. Flexible work arrangements can impact productivity levels and may not be suitable for every business.
Food Options
Free food is almost a standard benefit for most companies, especially those that provide lunch options. However, the same food choices can get boring after a while. Employees will appreciate it if you switch up the menu occasionally. You can also let them order their food so that they can have something that they like. You can add a snack bar with healthy and unhealthy options if possible.
You can also offer breakfast options for employees who come in early. Breakfast foods like bagels, muffins, and fruits are perfect. You can also include coffee and juices. These little changes can make a big difference for your employees.
For lunchtime, you might be able to experiment with the different types of food, opening your company up to other restaurant partners. An Afghan restaurant can serve traditional cuisine one day, surprising your employees’ palettes with flavorful herbs and spices. If your staff loves it, you might even insert it as a daily food item. You can also surprise them with a few sushi or pizza days. However, it might be better to go healthy with a salad bar.
It can also be fun to have themed days where everyone brings in a dish from their culture. This is a great way to encourage diversity and respect your employees’ cultures.
These types of days can be fun and educational for your employees.
Final Thoughts
Making a few changes to your office can significantly impact your employees. They will appreciate your effort in making their work life more enjoyable. Implementing these changes can also make your office more productive and efficient. They might require you to invest some money, but it will be worth it in the long run. Your employees are your most valuable asset, so make sure you take care of them.
