| testimonials |
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Funatix provided an atmosphere where colleagues could interact on all levels. It was great to laugh so hard that my stomach hurt and to see people outside of work hours really enjoying themselves. It was a fantastic time had by all!! Thanks. |
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Natalie Jones
Advisor Support ESI Financial Services |
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Our positive memories can provide so much information to help us in considering the way we want to live. When most people reflect on what they liked about their school days it is the memories of subjects and activities which were fun that come to the surface. Maybe it was involvement in extra curricular activities like sport, the school musical, a camp, or debating. Your favourite teacher was probably the one who made the lessons fun, who encouraged laughter in the classroom, who guided you, who encouraged you to use your individual skills in a creative way - whatever they were.
My point here is that many workplaces have created and embraced a similar climate. And why shouldn't work have elements of fun?
Creating this balance is not an epic task. There are many small things that can be put into place which slowly begin to seep into the natural climate. It is important to bring some of the fun TO the workplace rather than always taking staff away to have fun, to ensure that it gradually becomes part of the culture. From little things big things grow, but nothing grows without nurturing and time and space. For the partnership of work and play to succeed everyone needs to be in the game, regardless of position. If it is something to be valued in the workplace, people on all levels need to walk the talk.
After all; remember the teacher you liked? They probably got in and participated in things with you and weren't afraid to admit to a mistake. And how much better was it when your parents gave you a game but then actually made the time to sit down and play it with you?
If you want creative workers give them enough time to play
John Cleese
HOW WILL YOU BRING FUN INTO YOUR WORKPLACE?
Tips for Managers
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Consider starting with small things that can be easily implemented. |
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If you are proposing a 'team building' event or a social event together as a reward, don't expect staff to pay their own way. It defeats the purpose of the reward. But if you are paying and it is in work time expect them to attend |
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Participate! Join in! Staff need to know that you want to be part of the team and that you too know how to have fun. |
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Outsource - no one on staff needs the pressure of trying to please everyone else. |
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Be considerate of everyone in the group. Find a balance between new and challenging activities and the level of comfort of all participants. |
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Be present. Be observant. Turn your phone to silent. It is amazing what you can learn about your staff in another context - transfer this knowledge into your workplace. |
Tips for staff
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Consider starting with small things that can be easily implemented. |
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Don't dismiss something because you have already done it at another workplace. |
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Speak up - make some suggestions of how there can be more fun in your workplace. |
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Make a commitment to attending as many of the planned social activities as you can and consider trying to mingle with colleagues you don't know as well as others. |
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Approach new team building opportunities with an open mind - they are not all the same! |
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If your employer is paying and the event is in work time they are showing you their commitment to staff - show them your commitment to the activity. |
We don't stop playing because we grow old; we grow old because we stop playing.
George Bernard Shaw | |
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