Use a “Playroom” to Bridge the Gap between Your Multi-Generational Workforce

In my last Insight, I explained the differences between the four generations that are currently working together in the work place. 

In this Insight, I’d like to talk about the idea of a “play room,” and explain how it can help bridge the gap between generations. 

What is a “playroom?”

A “play room” is a type of break room where employees can sit around, hang out and get creative. 

These types of rooms usually attract members of Generation X and, especially, Generation Y, but they can be tailored to all generations of employees. 

These rooms typically have comfy couches and chairs, and sometimes even bean bags! 

Employers are trying to build workspaces that are fun and that encourage employee camaraderie and creativity. This can help bridge the gap between your different generations of employees since “fun” is a word that speaks to all generations. 

If you’re interested in seeing images from different company “playrooms,” check out Alexander Kjerulf’s (the author of Happy Hour is 9 to 5) blog post on 10 Seriously Cool Workplaces. 

How Do I Create a “Playroom” in My Workplace?

If you’re interested in using an employee “playroom” to help bridge the gap between your different generations of employees, here are some steps to get you started: 

• Decide on Your Goal—Why do you want to create this “playroom?” What are you hoping to get out of it? Do you want to increase employee camaraderie? Are you trying to give your employees some stress relief? Are you looking to help them come up with some creative, out-of-the-box ideas? 
• Determine a budget—How much are you able/do you want to spend on creating this “playroom?” Your budget makes all the difference in what you can and can’t incorporate into your “playroom.”
• Do some research—Find out what other companies are doing (see the link above for 10 interesting examples). Ask your employees what they’d like to see implemented in the “playroom,” such as a pool table or giant whiteboard.
• Make your selections—Decide which items you want to incorporate in your “playroom.” Your choices should be in alignment with your goals for the room.
  
  For example, if your goal is to increase employee camaraderie, you’ll want to purchase items that encourage bonding, such as a pool table or air hockey table, video games or board games. 

And for those employers who read this Insight and think—“Why would I encourage my employees to slack off?” or “But won’t giving employees a playroom cause them to never get work done?” have no fear. Employees won’t slack off. 

In fact, a “playroom” will help them relieve stress, which will help them to be more focused and more productive. Employees may even work harder just to keep the arrangement. 

Also, if you’re worried about employees spending too much time in the “playroom,” consider setting ground rules, such as specific times employees are allowed to use the room (at lunch time, during their 15 minute morning or afternoon breaks), and communicate to employees that the “playroom” is a privilege, which will be taken away if productivity starts to decline.

If you’re interested in using an employee “playroom” to help bridge the gap between your different generations of employees, here are some steps to get you started.