Ways to Create a Better Break Room
One of the most important keys to a successful business is happy employees.
Employees who are happy with their work and feel fulfilled are more productive, more motivated, and more loyal. A positive working environment can go a long way.
Unfortunately, far too many employees in the U.S. don’t find much fulfillment from their job. In fact, 83% of people in the workforce have job-related stress.
If you own a company or manage a group of people, it’s important to do what you can to ensure their happiness.
While sometimes that means a complete overhaul in company culture, other times subtle, simple changes can make a big difference.
If you’re not sure where to start, take a look at your employee break room.
Do your employees really feel relaxed and stress-free there?
If not, let’s look at a few ways you can make some improvements.
Let Them Be Kids Again
Some of the biggest, most successful corporations across the globe have games in their break rooms.
That includes everything from video games to board games, and even ping pong tables or basketball hoops.
Don’t be afraid to get creative. When you do, your employees are more likely to find their own creative spark when they get back to work, too.
Have a Designated Quiet Place
Some people won’t benefit from the noisiness of games and conversation.
Instead, they might prefer a quiet area where they can unwind, look at a book, or sip a cup of coffee in peace.
With that in mind, it can be worth it to do your research on how to choose the best commercial espresso machine.
Because people need different methods of relaxation, you may need to consider having more than one break room.
Or, at least have a smaller quiet space for those who need it.
Encourage Communication
A major part of positive office culture is how employees interact with each other.
Encourage communication in the break room. Make it a place where people can get together and talk, bounce ideas off of each other, and have fun.
One easy way to boost communication is to make it food-friendly.
Employees can eat their lunches together, grab a snack or a drink, and start to talk about everything from families to projects they’re working on in the office.
When your employees get along, they will support each other and encourage each other.
Break Room: Fostering a Healthier Work Environment
In addition to having a great break room for your employees to relax, be sure to encourage its use.
Make it known that you want your employees to take several breaks throughout the day, or as needed.
Not only will that show them that you care about their wellbeing, but it can boost your business because they’ll be less likely to hit a wall and more motivated to keep working.
Stressed employees are more likely to get sick and miss work, which could cost your business thousands of dollars
. By investing your interest in the mental and physical health of those who work for you, everyone wins.
