The best way to get more from your staff
I took part in a dragonboat race with colleagues recently and it reminded me what a big role physical activity can play in the workplace. We had a lot of fun and got to know each other a lot better. The next day we all had soreness in muscles that we hadn’t used for a long time. We also had a mutual respect and a strong foundation to deal with the challenges of a working day.
In China, companies provide an opportunity to practice Tai Chi before starting work. What a great start to the day! The body and mind are alert. I’m confident that this would not happen if there were no productivity benefits.
So why aren’t all companies offering this? From market stall to multi-national- there are benefits. Benefits which ultimately mean profit. More profit.
The answer is that most companies don’t know where to begin. To date, there have mainly been ‘in house’ gyms or deals with a local gym. This doesn’t engage everyone.
There’s a need for a senior position within every organisation that deals with physical activity. CEO could be a Chief Exercise Officer and CFO might be a Chief Fitness Officer! Those that get this idea will have distinct advantages.
If you are a business owner or decision maker within a large organisation: take the first step now. Get a consultant in, to show you what can be done. Then create a permanent position. If you don’t, I have a feeling that you will be left behind…