The Wall Street Journal reports, "Companies are trying to bring more play to the workday. Striving to make everyday business tasks more engaging, a growing number of firms, including International Business Machines Corp. and consulting firm Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Ltd., are incorporating elements of videogames into the workplace.
They're deploying reward and competitive tactics commonly found in the gaming world to make tasks such as management training, data entry and brainstorming seem less like work. Employees receive points or badges for completing jobs or meeting time limits for assignments, for example. Companies also may use leaderboards, which let players view one another's scores, to encourage friendly competition and motivate performance, experts say."
This is just the latest way that employers are trying to motivate employees and up productivity utilitzing "outside of the box" thinking. Other examples of employers trying to add a little fun into employees' workdays include:
• On-site Fitness Centers: Most large companies have a fitness center on-site or offer a fitness benefit to employees. But many stop short of actually encouraging employees to utilize the facilities. Employers who take the next step and make physical activity part of the corporate culture will likely reap the benefits - healthier, more relaxed and productive employees.
• Flex-time: As we mentioned last month, many companies are now offering telecommuting and flexible hours to employees. And the results are positive.
• Community Outreach: Many companies have community service days or encourage some type of community outreach on the company's dime. It gives employees a chance to feel fulfilled and connect with their community without sacrificing time or their paycheck - which might otherwise be barriers to doing so.
• Free Food: Providing free good quality food to employees can make their lunch and coffee breaks that much more enjoyable.
• Travel Perks: As a reward for working hard, many companies offer perks or incentives that let employees play hard - utilizing company resources like corporate apartments or company transportation for their leisure time.
These are just a few examples of ways that employers can show their employees that they are valued and encourage them to take breaks and have fun to increase productivity. While not all of the above are feasible in all industries, the basic idea is the same: keep your employees happy and they will likely work harder.
DISCLAIMER: All information on this website are provided for informational purposes only and are not intended to be construed as legal advice. The Law Offices of Dworkin & Maciariello shall not be liable for any errors or inaccuracies contained herein, or any actions taken in reliance thereon.
Illinois Work Injury Blog
Illinois Work Injury Blog - providing information and resources regarding work injury and workers compensation issues in the Chicago, Illinois area.
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