With more people quitting, job hopping, and retiring, it can be difficult to build a team environment. However, that is exactly what you need to attract and retain employees in Seattle, Tacoma, Puget Sound. Managers in Seattle, Tacoma, and Puget Sound can take steps to connect with employees. One step is to enlist the help of the the human resource manager and facility manager to adjust employee perks. Even small changes in the office, or in the services, can create a more positive corporate culture and reduce turnover.
Be visible in the break room
When creating a better corporate environment, it’s important that managers be available to employees and foster communication. One way to be more available is to linger in the Seattle, Tacoma, Puget Sound break room. Maybe it’s saying “Hello” to employees coming for a cup of coffee. Alternatively, it could be suggesting the staff meeting be held in the break room.
It is often easier for people to connect over food, which is why company lunches are powerful tools. Utilize the power of food for your entire Seattle, Tacoma, Puget Sound company. Bringing in corporate pantry service on a regularly basis or even just once a month. Pantry service or corporate catering can be as small as some packaged snacks and drinks. It can also be as large as healthy, fresh food platters alongside specialty drink machines. We have many pantry service options and assist in creating the ideal level of service. Ensure your Seattle, Tacoma, Puget Sound employees feel comfortable in the break room, want to visit the break room, and connect with management. There is no better way for Seattle, Tacoma, Puget Sound employees to feel heard.
Survey your employees
If you aren’t sure what employees would appreciate, try a survey. Not everyone will respond. However, many will and it can tell what would make the most impact to your Seattle, Tacoma, Puget Sound employees. Ask about large and/or small things. Do they detest the taste of the break room tap water? Are they not getting enough breaks? Let them air their grievances and then compile the results. Look at what comes up most often and address those if you can. Even if it’s small. Perhaps add a point-of-use water filtration system. Installing one can improve the flavor of the tap water, tea and office coffee.
Create a message of solidarity
When there’s instability in the workforce, it’s important to foster a “we’re in this together” mentality. There are many ways to do this. Managers can allow for a bit of personal small talk at the beginning of a meeting. Another idea is to celebrate a team-member’s birthday with a free micro-market treat.
On a larger scale, create solidarity by hosting corporate events. Bring back corporate Christmas parties, lunch meetings, and summer BBQs. This ensures your entire Seattle, Tacoma, Puget Sound workforce feels appreciated. Perhaps offer free food days, where the company picks up the tab at vending machines. Or, pay for all purchases at a micro-market as an occasional treat. Be creative with the Seattle, Tacoma, Puget Sound break room services you already offer. You can always ask your service provider for ideas too.
With staffing shortages, you may be tempted to avoid longer staff meetings and time away from work for company events. However, while this can be effective in the short term, employees will burn out or feel overworked. They will start looking for another job. Instead, make breaks a priority. Use the time and space to connect with the employees who are sticking by you.
Want to know how you upgrade your Seattle, Tacoma, Puget Sound break room for better employee connections? Need a change in service after an employee survey? Vista Vending is happy to work with you on creative solutions to all your break room needs. Contact us today at (253) 592-2843.