I've worked for managers that didn't like it when we had fun at work. When we laughed and carried on, it didn't seem like we were doing anything productive. Bah - humbug!
If you're this type of manager, I suggest you read on...
John Gratton of CoreCharacter shares an article he read which sums up why we should always have fun at work:
"Happier, more productive associates will provide better customer service because they will sincerely and naturally strive to build positive relationships with clients. Customers, in turn, will talk to the same staff all the time and feel secure in the knowledge that they are being taken care of personally and consistently. Clients will feel the energy and personal commitment given to their accounts, which will result in increased customer satisfaction and retention rates." Having fun doesn't necessarily equate to non-productivity, so loosen up a little! Read a similar post I wrote: Laugh With Your Customers
Thanks, Maria. There seems to be more and more support support for this in the literature. You might try Get Back In The Box by Douglas Rushkoff for further illustration. Have fun!
Posted by: John | May 4, 2006 1:34 PM | Permalink to Comment