Can a Google-like office make you happier?

Employees are the building blocks of a company, yet they are often neglected, as seen by the rising cases of employees collapsing from exhaustion, and even reports of employee abuse.

Based on the results of a multi-national survey released just this year, Singaporean employees were found to be the second least satisfied group of workers in the world: 76% of all employees expressed some form of dissatisfaction with their jobs.

While not surprising due to the fast-pace speed Singapore adopts in order to stay abreast in today’s competitive economy, such statistics are a cause for concern regardless, because you can be sure that an unhappy workforce would not be willing to go the extra mile for you. Besides, the Ministry of Manpower has started to stress the importance of providing proper work-life balance for employees.

They have cited evidence that happiness levels in employees shared a direct relationship with productivity levels, which goes to show the importance of employee welfare.

Still need some convincing? Take a look at Google’s comprehensive welfare plan for its workers. Employees do no just get to enjoy a variety of benefits and services, their headquarters boast of workout facilities, a café, well-stocked pantries and even free meals daily.

Of course, not all companies have the kind of funds Google has. However, we can still work by providing simple welfare enhancement courses or activities for the whole team. Personal grooming courses, financial management and IT courses just some of the more common self-improvement courses companies sign their employees up for to improve their well-being and know-hows.

Companies can also look to activities that encourage team-bonding, as that is proven to help increase job satisfaction which thus leads to higher productivity levels.

Timeout sessions in playrooms or weekly meal get-togethers, are some activities to help an employee de-stress and foster team cohesion at the same time. Companies with slightly more funds may also consider sending the whole team for a short vacation nearby and engage in healthy activities like sports or games.

There are also many team activities that help improve an employee’s well-being, though they may not be that common among many companies. Here are some interesting and healthy suggestions for you:

Zumba. Zumba is an up-and-coming contemporary dance fitness programme where dancers work out to the lively beats of Latin-inspired music. It is increasing in popularity in Singapore now, especially with the People’s Association actively promoting this dance activity.

The routines are simple and manageable enough for people of all ages and fitness levels. Combining fun and exercise together is a great formula for an energetic and vibrant work team.

Wine tasting - Indulgence in wine has always had a certain class to it, which is understandable because it takes specialised knowledge and practice to appreciate a fine glass of wine.

Wine tasting courses give employees a better understand of wine, which can put to use should they need to entertain clients with a penchant for these alcoholic beverages. This also helps them increase their cultural capital.

Moreover, moderate consumption of wine is known to be beneficial to one’s health, thus the team can bond over a healthy indulgence while sharing pointers and other thoughts together.

Remember that a little investment towards employee welfare goes a long way and reaps many benefits for the company. Here’s a toast to a happier and more productive workforce.