What makes a workplace fun and motivating?

A motivating workplace helps to ensure staff are happy and enjoy being at work. Comfortable workplaces, team building and social activities are appreciated and enjoyed. There are lot of initiatives that can be implemented within a workplace that help establish motivation, passion and loyalty.

1. Breakfast at work- energy first thing
We saw some fabulous examples of making a workplace fun at SEEK when we filmed there to see how they motivate their people. They provide kitchens on every floor, with breakfast for everyone – which energises people first thing in the morning…cereals, toast, coffees… people happily chatting as they prepare their breakfasts in the kitchens.

2. Social culture – friends at work
They have a strong social culture – something we also saw at Peregrine Adventures. People make friends at work – and enjoy their company. They care about each other – and this caring culture is very evident throughout the business. People talk about it being fun at work, you can feel the energy, and see the enjoyment and fun they have.

3. Desirable workplace – comfort, colour and fun
SEEK made their workplace “desirable” using light, colour and design. They encouraged staff creativity and allowed for comfortable workspaces, unique and comfortable furniture, large personal work areas and relaxing zones for time out. They have meeting rooms with different themes and fun names; they have cheerful partitions and non-traditional spaces, and a slide from one floor down to another! They have great break out areas – they can have a social gathering and celebrate success.

And at Peregrine they also have a “comfort zone” – a homely break out room with bean bags and a TV – where people can watch sport, chat to mates, enjoy lunch or even nap… going back to work refreshed. SEEK have a games room… somewhere to have fun and then return to work invigorated.

4. Team building activities and celebrations
I am delighted to hear about the fabulous activities people do apart from “work”… Barefoot bowling seems to be popular with many organisations, also ball games, dress up days, boating, car rallies, competitions, bowling, movies, ski trips, getting together in parks. Relationships are strengthened and this boosts productivity.

Peregrine engineers hold “getting to know you” events, where people find out more about their colleagues, and they have slide nights that double as educational sessions on travel and team bonding. Birthday celebrations and cakes are fun and appreciated, as are end of month awards.

Here are some interesting questions to consider about your workplace:

1. What initiatives does your organisation have that promotes a fun and motivating workplace? Are they successful?
2. Do you celebrate successes – when and how?
3. What team-building activities and social events has your business offered within the past 12 months? Do staff get involved in developing fun events?
4. How would you describe the appearance and layout of your offices and meeting rooms? Do they encourage informal communication and creativity? How could it be improved?
5. Does your management encourage staff ideas for improving the office spaces and meeting rooms?
6. Is your kitchen area or staffroom/tea room a pleasant area? Are there facilities for fun and relaxation?

Eve Ash designed and produced the latest DVD release Motivating, Fun Workplace which is one of the 10 DVDs in the series WORKPLACE EXCELLENCE SERIES www.7dimensions.com.au.