A recent article describing workplace environments in Madison WI caught my eye.
The workspace described folks working in slippers, bringing their dogs to work and beer on tap. One of the companies profiled is Drifty (not the picture above) a local software company in downtown Madison. Reading this article brought back memories of the "go-go" internet boom in the early 90's in Boulder CO where I worked as a tech recruiter. Back then it meant Aeron chairs, foosball and espresso machines. Now it's dogs at work and beer on tap in the Midwest! Very often, the beer isn't touched until 5pm . . .
Drifty and other software companies have to compete fiercely for software developers in this ultra tight IT market. Offering a "home away from home" entices employees to put in the extra hours and have some fun and relaxation at work. Since workers spend 45+ hours (or more) at work they want to feel comfortable which increases productivity. The blend between work and home becomes seamless and folks dig into their work with more focus and intensity.
I think there is one more "perk" that would generate loyalty for any company. Give folks one day every other week to "work from home" while being available for conference or Skype calls. Just one day to work in a comfy environment, do some wash, cook a meal and avoid a commute would work wonders for a positive attitude and revitalize the workforce. It's a no cost perk that could really make someone choose you as their employer!
The workspace described folks working in slippers, bringing their dogs to work and beer on tap. One of the companies profiled is Drifty (not the picture above) a local software company in downtown Madison. Reading this article brought back memories of the "go-go" internet boom in the early 90's in Boulder CO where I worked as a tech recruiter. Back then it meant Aeron chairs, foosball and espresso machines. Now it's dogs at work and beer on tap in the Midwest! Very often, the beer isn't touched until 5pm . . .
Drifty and other software companies have to compete fiercely for software developers in this ultra tight IT market. Offering a "home away from home" entices employees to put in the extra hours and have some fun and relaxation at work. Since workers spend 45+ hours (or more) at work they want to feel comfortable which increases productivity. The blend between work and home becomes seamless and folks dig into their work with more focus and intensity.
I think there is one more "perk" that would generate loyalty for any company. Give folks one day every other week to "work from home" while being available for conference or Skype calls. Just one day to work in a comfy environment, do some wash, cook a meal and avoid a commute would work wonders for a positive attitude and revitalize the workforce. It's a no cost perk that could really make someone choose you as their employer!
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