Creating the Best Workplace in 5 Easy Steps

Have you ever worked in a horrible workplace? You know the place I’m talking about — — the one where you scheduled that long overdue root canal just so you could get a few hours away from the office. For many of us, it’s easy to pinpoint exactly what makes a workplace terrible. But what makes a thriving workplace? Does a great place to work depend on individual preference, or are there some universal attributes? I polled some colleagues, and here’s what I found:

1. Flexibility —  Let’s face it, we didn’t like being told what to do when we were kids, and it’s especially unpleasant in the working world. Choice — the how, what, when and where to achieve work objectives is a key first ingredient to creating a successful workplace.

2. Food + Espresso —  Often overlooked, food is one of the simplest ways to create a great place to work. Everyone one needs to eat. Bring on the bagels and a state-of-the-art espresso machine, and people will stay.

3. Non-working Working —  While a Rockies game or a ski weekend may not write the company business plan, it gives employees an opportunity to connect and to have fun. And when Monday morning rolls around, employees can start from a place of shared experiences.

4. Humor —  Is there something in the office you want to change? Try humor. Humor shows personality as well as intelligence, and it diffuses stress. Think SNL skit vs. Tax Code. Which would engage you?

5. Trust Backed by Clear Expectations —  Trust is the final step. Set clear expectations and trust your employees to get the job done.

Follow these five steps and you will be on your way to creating one of the best places to work.