- A well-equipped and comfortable breakroom increases employee retention, job satisfaction, and productivity.
- Comfort is crucial; provide plush chairs, cozy couches, supportive office chairs, soft lighting, calming colors, and pleasant décor.
- Provide entertainment options like games, reading material, TV, movies, or exercise equipment to relieve stress and foster camaraderie among colleagues.
- Snacks and refreshments satisfy hunger and thirst and improve productivity and social interaction.
The employee breakroom is an essential part of any workplace. Not only does it serve as a place for employees to take a break and recharge their batteries, but it also acts as a hub for social interaction and team building. Here are some statistics that highlight the importance of having a well-equipped and comfortable breakroom for employees:
A study by the Society for Human Resource Management found that employees with access to a well-stocked breakroom are likelier to stay with a company in the long term. Research by the University of California, Irvine, discovered that taking a break from work and engaging in a relaxing activity, such as playing a game or chatting with colleagues, can increase productivity and creativity. Another study by Staples found that most employees believe that having a nice breakroom enhances their overall quality of life and job satisfaction.
From these statistics, it is clear that investing in a high-quality employee breakroom can have tangible benefits for companies in terms of employee retention, job satisfaction, and productivity. But what should businesses be adding to their breakrooms? Here are some ideas:
Comfort
It cannot be overstated how crucial comfort is for employees in the breakroom. After all, the whole point of this space is to allow workers to relax and recharge. A poorly equipped or uncomfortable breakroom can be counterproductive and may even discourage employees from taking breaks altogether.
So what should businesses add to their breakrooms to create a comfortable environment? For starters, comfortable seating should be a top priority. Think plush chairs, cozy couches, and supportive office chairs. Footrests or ottomans can also add an extra touch of comfort.
The temperature of the breakroom is another critical factor. While it can be tempting to skimp on heating or air conditioning to save money, this will likely hurt employee comfort. Breakrooms should be kept at a comfortable temperature year-round to ensure workers feel comfortable.
In addition to physical comfort, businesses should also consider the overall ambiance of the breakroom. Soft lighting, calming colors, and pleasant décor can all contribute to a relaxing environment. Plants or other natural elements can also be soothing and add a touch of visual interest to the space.
Entertainment
Entertainment is another crucial element of a well-equipped employee breakroom. Providing employees with entertainment options can help them relieve stress and unwind during their breaks. Additionally, fun and engaging activities can foster a sense of camaraderie and boost morale among colleagues. Here are a few examples of entertainment options that businesses might consider adding to their breakrooms:
Games
Games are a classic breakroom staple that can provide hours of fun and relaxation. Board games, card games, and puzzles are all great options to enjoy alone or with colleagues. Video game consoles like PlayStation or Xbox are also popular breakroom choices. Playing games can help workers clear their minds and reset them before returning to work. Entertaining shuffleboard tables might also be a great addition to the breakroom.
Reading Material
Reading material is another valuable addition to breakrooms. Companies can provide magazines, newspapers, and books that appeal to their employees’ interests or cover current events. Access to reading material can help employees disconnect from work-related stress and provide an opportunity to catch up on news and events.
TV and Movies
Many employees enjoy watching TV or movies during their breaks. A TV in the breakroom can provide a welcome distraction and help workers decompress. Streaming services like Netflix or Hulu can offer various programming options for different tastes. Businesses might also consider hosting movie nights or TV show marathons for employees to enjoy together.
Exercise Equipment
Finally, exercise equipment is another popular breakroom addition. While it might not seem entertaining, providing equipment like stationary bikes, treadmills, or yoga mats can encourage employees to stay active and improve their physical and mental well-being. Exercise has been shown to reduce stress levels and improve cognitive function, making it an excellent addition to any employee breakroom.
Snacks and Refreshments
Snacks and refreshments are another essential addition to any employee breakroom. Providing access to food and drink can satisfy employees’ hunger and thirst and improve their productivity and well-being. Here are some reasons why businesses should consider adding snacks and refreshments to their breakroom:
Working long hours without food or drink can lead to fatigue, hurting productivity and focus. Providing snacks and refreshments in the breakroom can help employees maintain their energy levels and stay focused on their work. It has been scientifically proven that eating healthy snacks can improve cognitive function and focus. Additionally, drinking water or other hydrating beverages can help employees avoid dehydration and keep them feeling alert.
Snacks and refreshments can also foster social interaction among colleagues. A well-stocked snack bar or coffee station can be a great conversation starter and encourage employees to connect. This socialization can boost morale and relationships, fostering a sense of belonging within a team. Colleagues can share snacks and refreshments, making the breakroom a place for camaraderie and collaboration.
Final Thoughts
The employee breakroom is an essential part of any workplace. A well-stocked and comfortable breakroom can benefit businesses, such as improved employee retention, job satisfaction, and productivity. Doing so will create a welcoming space where workers can take a break from work stress and recharge their batteries. With these additions, businesses can reap the rewards of a productive and happy workforce.