Creating a Fun Company Culture

Dr. Ryan Giffen

Work is not always the most exciting aspect of life, but it is a necessary one. There are many people who love their job and it may not be boring or hard. But for many, some days can be difficult to get through. Creating a fun company culture can have a positive impact on your employees.

There are numerous factors involved when it comes to workplace happiness and ease. A large part of this is the workplace environment itself. If an employee has to come into a harsh and toxic work environment every day, chances are that they are not performing as well. This is why it is important to foster a positive work environment and culture, or maybe even a fun one! There is a multitude of ways that a business can begin to create a fun company culture.

Changing Company Culture for the Better

We all have our routines and busy schedules, but it can be very uplifting to break away from these sometimes. Workers who are engaged in frequent meetings or mundane tasks could begin slowing in their productivity, but small changes can help remedy this situation. Stage a meeting outside the office, whether it be at a coffee shop, beach, etc. Some companies even engage in walking meetings to get the creative juices flowing. Management could surprise employees with snacks or lunch to ensure that the team is well fed for the day. The smallest switch-ups can help boost a team’s morale and productivity.

The Power of Freedom in the Workplace

It can be tough to leave your employees to their own devices since you want to stay up to date. But, micromanagement and over-supervision can make employees feel like they are not trusted, which can create a culture of secrecy. The thing to keep in mind about freedom is that it is a two-way street. Meaning that managers and employees must both be willing to embrace it. Management should provide details about various company operations, such as hirings, finances, and more. And employees should be willing to express any difficulties or concerns that they have. This can foster an extremely positive environment and the relationship between management and staff. 

Friendships Create a Good Company Culture

It is ideal for staff members to form friendships, or at least positive work relationships. When an employee enjoys the people that they work alongside, they are likely to be more productive and happier. They will also be more willing to work together in completing projects and achieving goals.

Celebration is Key to Success

It always feels great to be validated and complemented by employers, which brings the next point. Celebration at work is a key factor in a fun and positive work environment. Of course, large accomplishments should be celebrated, but it is also a good idea to celebrate small achievements. It does not always have to be a large scale celebration over everything. It could be as simple as praising employees for doing a good job or having higher statistics. If it is a massive achievement, then really bring on the celebration because this will inspire employees to do even better. This could include implementing a rewards program so that employees have something to work toward. Never underestimate the power of validation for a good day's work.

It can require a few changes to create a fun company culture, but it will pay off in results. Employees will be happier to come to work, increase their production, higher retention rates thus lower turnover, and be willing to help elevate business results. Some staff may even spread the word about the fun jobs that they have, leading to potential new hires in the future.


About Dr. Ryan Giffen

With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Ryan Giffen is an expert in human relations and business culture. His career began in hospitality, leading operations and human resource departments for Fortune 500 companies and the like. Not long after, Ryan found his passion for teaching and consulting. He earned a Ph.D. in Hospitality Management with a Human Resources focus from Iowa State University and now works as an assistant professor at California State University, Long Beach. For over a decade, he continues to research and speak on organizational culture, relationship intelligence, and leadership effectiveness. Ryan is also the founder of Inospire, a company helping bosses and employees build stronger relationships with one another.  Lastly, Dr. Giffen is producer and host of the Corporate Shadow Podcast. a show helping everyday employees overcome workplace nonsense.