Creating a positive and productive work environment goes beyond offering competitive salaries and benefits (though, those count too). In today’s world, office amenities play a crucial role in retaining top talent. By providing employees with well-thought-out and appealing amenities, businesses can significantly boost employee satisfaction and overall well-being. In our previous post, we discussed the importance of office location; in this post, we’ll delve into four office amenities that can make a real difference in enhancing employee happiness and productivity.
1. Break Room Vibes
Offering comfortable and inviting break areas can give employees a much-needed breather during the workday. One of the main reasons for return-to-office work is increased collaboration, so a well-designed lounge or break room equipped with comfortable seating, recreational activities, and a stocked kitchen or pantry fits the bill for fostering natural social interactions and a sense of community and culture.
At PEAK6, we’ve learned that a team that knows how to relax together knows how to work together. Break areas, like our fully stocked kitchens in all our PEAK6 locations, allow employees to recharge, build relationships with colleagues, and return to their projects feeling refreshed and motivated.
2. Clear Out the Cubicles and Boring Desks; Create Flexible Workspaces
Leadership at PEAK6 is always looking for ways of giving employees a sense of control over their work and environment. Because, face it, today’s workforce wants flexibility and autonomy. On top of a hybrid office schedule, we provide a variety of workspaces — including open collaboration areas, quiet zones, and comfortable seating options — that empower employees to choose the setting that best suits their needs and work preferences. Some tasks demand heads-down focus at a desk; other projects need the flexibility (and white boards) that enhances creativity and collaboration.
3. Unbeatable On-Site Services
Convenience plays a vital role in employee satisfaction. Offering on-site services like dry cleaning, car washes, or even haircuts can alleviate the stress of managing personal errands during work hours. Such amenities save employees valuable time and energy, allowing them to strike a better work-life balance.
At our PEAK6 headquarters in the Chicago Board of Trade building, we use the office lunch service Fooda to bring restaurant meals to our employees, and we include a stipend to help offset costs. This amenity saves time on busy days when leaving the office is harder to manage — or when it’s too cold or rainy out.
4. Connect With Like-Minded Individuals
Office amenities can also influence collaboration and networking opportunities with nearby companies. Being near similar businesses or industry vendors makes collaborating effortless. Encouraging employees to network around your building or within a large complex full of companies can lead to idea-sharing and professional growth, boosting job satisfaction and fostering industry longevity.
Office amenities can transform the workplace experience, creating an environment where employees feel valued, engaged, and motivated. Companies can significantly enhance employee satisfaction and overall well-being by providing comfortable break areas, fitness facilities, flexible workspaces, wellness programs, and on-site services. Investing in these amenities demonstrates a commitment to the happiness and productivity of employees, fostering a positive company culture and attracting and retaining top talent. Remember, small changes in the office environment can lead to significant improvements in employee satisfaction and contribute to the organization’s long-term success.
Revisit part one of our location series: 5 Ways Your Office Location Can Boost Employee Satisfaction. It covers how you can boost employee satisfaction with the right office location.