"Though fun at work is sometimes thought to be a distraction, research suggests that it has a positive impact on engagement, creativity, and purpose — increasing employee retention and reducing turnover. When we find tasks enjoyable, we're more eager to dig in and complete them," assures Bob Nelson.
This doesn't come as a surprise since certifications like Best Place to Work are held with pride in many companies in hopes of attracting and retaining talent. So, what techniques can companies implement to make work fun and more enjoyable? According to Bob Nelson, you can start implementing these simple changes to see progress right away:
1. Gamify Your Tasks
You can break large projects down into tasks, and give small rewards when employees complete them before a certain deadline. Maybe a couple of hours off after they finished them, or something rewarding.
2. Make One Small Change
Often a small change can give you a fresh perspective. For example, Katie Sheehan, a publishing marketing manager, described how simply changing the title of her “To-Do List” into a “Fun List” shifts her mindset from, “I need to check these things off today,” to “I’m going to have fun today.”
3. Nothing Beats Music
Listening to music you enjoy can not only reduce stress while working, but also it can help make you feel inspired and motivated too. Give this technique a try to see how it impacts your work day.
4. Vary Your Location
Sometimes varying your physical location can make your work feel fresher. Working a couple of hours from your favorite park or even museum can break the office routine. You can learn 11 more ways to promote wellness to your employees here.
What do you do for yourself or for employees to make work more enjoyable? Share some ideas in the comments below.
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2 Comments
Our workplace places a focus on social connectedness and encourages activities based on staff interest like lunch and learns, walking groups, book clubs, etc. There is definitely an understanding within our organization that to meet the needs of the organization we also need to support the needs of employees and make it an enjoyable and motivational environment.
2 years agoIn my organization, we hold barbeques, scavenger hunts, meetings outside, and most recently a potluck lunch. They are really fun activities that bring us all together and creates engagement.
2 years ago