Break rooms are an integral part of any workplace, and deserve a lot more attention than you'd think. Aside from simply providing a space where employees can decompress for a moment, a break room should be inviting and foster an environment where everyone can mix and mingle. If you're in the process of designing (or redesigning) your company break room, consider these essential items.
7 Items To Include In Your Company Break Room
1. Comfortable Seating & Tables
Stiff wooden chairs aren't comfortable, so why have them in the break room? Employees will be more appreciative of chairs that are actually comfortable. When choosing break room furniture, perhaps take a couple of employees to the store to test them out before purchasing them.
2. Free Coffee
There are plenty of office coffee services out there. Coffee has long been known to increase mental energy, so by providing free coffee it will help employees be more productive.
3. TV
You might be asking, 'why on Earth would I put a TV in the break room?' After all, people are there to do work. But a TV can provide employees a mental escape from work if needed. A TV also keeps everyone connected to current events, so if something happens that's news worthy, everyone can feel involved and know what's going on. Just be sure to enforce strict rules about the volume, and consider limiting the amount of channels offered.
4. Drinks & Snacks
It's become very popular among many offices to provide free snacks and drinks for employees. If you have the room and budget for this sort of office perk, then by all means pursue it. If not, consider getting some vending machines. Free vending services like our full-service program provide drinks and snacks at no cost to your business, and offer a way for employees to get a quick drink or snack.
5. Refrigerator & Microwave
Definitely a must-have. Even if it's a mini fridge. Employees who bring their lunch need a place to put it, and a way to heat it up if necessary. Plus, if you offer free drinks and snacks, you'll need a place to keep them cold somehow!
6. Games
Games? Much like the TV, it seems counter intuitive. But hear us out: multiplayer games like a billiards table, ping pong table, or even board games help foster strong and positive relationships among employees. It also provides a way for them to engage in an activity away from work that will help reduce stress.
7. Celebrations
Every office needs a place for everyone to gather and celebrate important moments. Birthdays, holidays, and company goals are all part the workplace and shouldn't be treated as something extra.
Frequently Asked Questions About Company Break Rooms
Why is a break room important in the workplace?
Break rooms provide employees a space to decompress and foster an inviting environment where they can mix and mingle. They contribute to employee well-being and help create a positive workplace culture.
What type of seating should be included in a company break room?
Comfortable seating and tables are essential. Avoid stiff wooden chairs and instead choose chairs that employees find comfortable, possibly by testing options with employee input before purchasing.
Why should free coffee be offered in the break room?
Free coffee helps increase employees' mental energy and productivity. Providing office coffee services is a popular way to support employees during their breaks.
What is the benefit of having a TV in the break room?
A TV offers employees a mental escape and keeps them connected to current events. It is important to enforce rules about volume and channel selection to maintain a good environment.
Should drinks and snacks be provided in the break room?
Providing free drinks and snacks is a popular office perk that can boost employee satisfaction. If budget or space is limited, vending machines are a convenient alternative to offer refreshments.
Why are a refrigerator and microwave necessary in a break room?
A refrigerator and microwave allow employees to store and heat their lunches. They are also needed to keep free drinks and snacks cold if those are provided.
How do games contribute to the break room environment?
Games like billiards, ping pong, or board games help reduce stress and foster positive relationships among employees by encouraging social interaction away from work tasks.
