In recent times, workplaces have faced innumerable challenges, including the pandemic outbreak, unstable economic conditions, the great resignation wave, etc. From working at the office to working from home and then switching to a hybrid working model, employers and employees have felt drastic changes that resulted in decreased productivity and lower job satisfaction. Additionally, given the nature of Bangladesh traffic, an employee has to spend 7 to 10 hours at work each day. It is unreasonable to expect they will devote all their attention to their work and production the whole time.
Do you know happy employees stay in their jobs four times more often than unhappy employees? Or happy employees are more likely to have 65% more energy than disgruntled employees? These are the kind of facts that play a significant role in determining the productivity and growth of any workplace.
Here comes the question “what can be done to get the best out of your employees?”
“Recreational activities” are anything done for a break, leisure, pleasure, or fun that helps workers relax, reduce stress and improve concentration, socialize with their colleagues, as well as help improve employees’ productivity. Modern companies are looking for ways to maximize employees’ productivity through recreational programs to remain competitive in the business world.
There is a psychological connection between productivity and emotions. Workplace satisfaction and contentment lead to attributes like dedication, motivation, and retention; on the other hand, we shut down when we’re frustrated, angry, or stressed. Thus stress and efficiency are inversely proportional. In an attempt to mitigate the adverse impact of the monotonous and stressful work-life, nowadays, companies are looking for ways in their offices to allow their employees to relax.
Now the question arises what types of activities should be provided?
These entertainment areas often have TVs with modern gaming features, table tennis boards, vending machines, carom or billiard boards, massage chairs, or sofas. Many organizations included outdoor games, contests, competitions, festivals, events, and travel programs. This combination of work and play has many advantages as it allows a new connection between the company and its human resources. Moreover, it creates a thriving environment of working. These initiatives have plenty of benefits for the company and its human resources.
The tech giant Google is well-known for providing its workers world-class recreation, including games, free meals, and gyms. Besides, Google employees can enjoy video games, nap pods, mini-golf, and more at the office.
In all global markets, Unilever has numerous recreational options–including sports, wellness/gym, entertainment, and even personal grooming and styling.
Now we will be looking at what might be the solution to the question, “How can recreational activities benefit employees?”
Firstly, one of the direct consequences of introducing recreational activities is that the workplace becomes a better workplace. As most of those activities involve a group of employees completing a game or any task like meetings or arranging any event, the leadership team and employees get a chance to communicate to learn about their weaknesses and strengths. The barriers between the employer and the employees are broken through these activities. Employees who feel free to discuss ideas and concerns openly are more likely to feel valued in the workplace. Ultimately this results in higher employee satisfaction, a decrease in leave of absence, and an overall improvement in performance.
Another critical outcome of leisure activities is promoting a positive vibe among colleagues. They can converse with each other effectively during that period. So, one of the most important reasons why such activities can be helpful to both the individual employee and the business is that they aid in improving collaboration, coordination, and cooperation among the employees.
If the stress of rigorous work needs is managed well, it can significantly positively impact one’s energy and productivity. So, providing an employee with a recreational space that includes games such as basketball, table tennis, pool, or other activities is a great way to give the workers a much-needed break. It fosters creativity, inspires out-of-the-box thinking at work, and returns to the office rejuvenated.
Companies with employee-focused benefits like recreational areas score a position in a positive, innovative work environment. These activities create a positive company culture by maintaining a happy, vibrant, co-dependent workforce.
Why should your office provide those facilities?
An employee spends most of his awaken hours in the office. A good company should ensure the physical well-being of its workers. We all know prolonged sitting has detrimental effects on our bodies.
The most hazardous of all are forward neck lean and spinal problems. Having employees do a little workout or even stretch and jump around every hour significantly impacts their physical well-being. While talking about mental health, recreational activities are an excellent source of breaking the mundane and monotonous life of the workforce. Doing the same laborious work daily can be a reason for lethargy among employees.
One question remains: can recreational facilities become a distraction?
In this competitive business world, employers can hardly leave their desks. Studies suggest that using recreational activities can trap employees in the office for long hours. Moreover, the actual benefits remain doubtful as the engagement in those activities depends on the individual’s interests, hobbies, and preferences. Besides, the success of recreational activities depends on the correct utilization of those activities.
Other than the problems mentioned above, well-planned and managed recreational activities can significantly contribute towards higher levels of employees’ commitment to the organization. It plays a crucial role in bonding among co-workers. Recreational activities provide an opportunity for socialization and strengthening ties among workers as well as for skills development such as leadership, interaction, and communication which are essential in the provision of effective service delivery. By offering recreation facilities to employees, organizations can help boost their productivity by meeting their physical and psychological needs, and reducing absenteeism, sick leaves, and medical costs. This translates to more working hours by healthy employees due to improved concentration, leading to enhanced organizational efficiency and profitability.
Author- Sadia shirin
