Here at Nonprofit Hub, we have a fun, creative workspace filled with lots of food and games. We go on walks when we feel overwhelmed. We take time to sit, socialize and enjoy each other’s company. And believe it or not, we leave every day feeling proud of what we’ve accomplished.
While having a playful workspace may seem like a recipe for self-imposed disaster, it’s just the opposite. Here are some ideas on how to make work more fun, which will result in a lower turnover rate and happier, more productive employees.
Food, food, food
This is one of the simplest ways to boost employee morale. Spend $20 on pizza or ice cream twice a month and watch as your employees’ eyes light up (and their stomachs growl). People can also eat while they work, which allows them to have fun while being productive.
I know what you’re thinking: food can’t make that big of a difference in someone’s day. But imagine being in the middle of a mundane workday, about to drift off while staring at your computer screen, when someone peeks their head around the corner and says, “Hey, there’s some ice cream in the break room!” If that isn’t a pick-me-up to get your employees through the day, I don’t know what is.
Games=Brain food
Playing a game every once in a while is a great way to reset and activate parts of your brain you wouldn’t normally use at work. Plus, studies show board games improve logical thinking, motor skills and memory. If your employees are feeling swamped, let them grab some coworkers and take 10 minutes to go play a game—even a simple deck of cards will do the trick.
When everyone sits back down at their desks, they’re guaranteed to have an improved attitude and a clear mind. So, while this strategy actually takes time out of the workday, your employees probably would have otherwise spent that time unproductively and with a cloudy, negative mindset.
Get some fresh air
Spending time outside is one of the best ways to increase productivity. Make sure you’re taking advantage of beautiful weather in any way you can—whether that’s having a picnic, going for a walk or holding a meeting outdoors. Once everyone has returned, your workplace will be buzzing with positive energy. Spending too much time inside can lead to cabin fever, so make sure no one in your workplace is falling victim to that!
When job hunting, people are always looking for a flexible, fun work environment. Make your nonprofit one of them, and watch your turnover rate decline. The mutual respect created through granting these simple freedoms is guaranteed to brighten the mood, stimulate productivity and make work fun!
