The workplace is multidimensional, and the people would be one of the most important aspects. Many companies would argue that their employees are their greatest assets, so it makes sense to make the workplace feel more fun and keep people motivated to come in and do their best each time.
Here are some ways to spread happiness and creativity in the office environment:
Create a Games or Breakout Area
It’s important to let people know you appreciate their hard work and encourage them to take regular, well-deserved breaks. If you can, provide an area where people can go for 10-15 minutes at a time to clear their minds. It could be a small break room with a couple of comfy chairs, or put up a dart board or pool table, somewhere along those lines. Of course, remind them these should be used within reason.
Go Out as a Team
People of course have friends outside of work, but it’s also important to build relationships in the workplace. Encourage socializing within the team by going out together during “team building” activities. Often, activities like team outings are paid for by the company, but you could also entice them to hang out during lunch break or happy hour as well.
On a side note, you could also try establishing regular meetings outside of the office. Use environments that foster more open communication – have a meeting at a pizza place to break the ice, and encourage people to speak up during such times. You build trust, and take walls down. Ask input and follow through. Remember that it’s a two-way street.
Redecorate
We spend nearly the majority of our waking hours at work, so make the office pleasing to look at. Make sure the cubicles and offices are organized and conducive to productivity. Of course, let people decorate their personal spaces as well – let them display photos and little knick-knacks that make their work stations feel a bit more like home.
Encourage Hobbies and Creativity
Some companies form clubs for common hobbies such as sports, art, writing, and other things. It could be a newsletter organized by people who love to write and take photos, or a sports fest for the more athletic types. Whichever you allow in the company, the important thing to let people know is they should enjoy their time and share commonalities with people they work with.