10 Workplace Experience Ideas That Employees Will Actually Love

Workplace experience ideas that address core employee needs

In the quest to cultivate a thriving workplace, companies are constantly exploring innovative ways to enhance employee experience. While the usual suspects like team-building activities and office perks have their place, it’s time to think beyond the ordinary and embrace ideas that truly resonate with employees.

We’ve scoured the landscape of workplace experience trends and, frankly, we’re surprised at what’s often missing. This article dives into 10 exceptional workplace experience ideas that go beyond the typical, culminating in an event that consistently delivers exceptional results: the professional headshot day. Often, facilities management teams are at the forefront of implementing these initiatives.

What Do Employees Really Want?

Before we delve into specific ideas, it’s important to understand what employees truly value in their workplace experience. It’s not just about fun and games; it’s about:

• Feeling Valued: Employees want to feel appreciated and recognised for their contributions.
• Professional Growth: They seek opportunities to develop their skills and advance their careers.
• Positive Culture: They thrive in environments that foster collaboration, respect, and inclusivity.
• Convenience and Support: They appreciate initiatives that make their lives easier and enhance their well-being.”

10 Workplace Experience Ideas That Go Beyond the Ordinary

So, without further ado, here are 10 workplace experience ideas that address these core employee needs, culminating in a standout option that consistently delivers exceptional results.

10: Professional Development Workshops

Investing in your employees’ professional growth is a powerful way to demonstrate your commitment to their success and foster a culture of continuous learning. Professional development workshops go beyond basic training, offering opportunities for employees to acquire new skills, enhance their existing abilities, and stay ahead of industry trends.

Consider offering workshops that address a range of topics, from technical skills like data analysis and project management to soft skills like leadership, communication, and emotional intelligence. Tailor the content to the specific needs and interests of your employees, and consider bringing in external experts or industry leaders to share their knowledge and insights. These workshops can be structured as interactive sessions, hands-on training, or even mentorship programs. By providing these opportunities for growth, you not only improve individual performance but also cultivate a more skilled and engaged workforce. This investment in professional development can lead to increased job satisfaction, higher retention rates, and a more innovative and adaptable organisation.

We’ve heard good things about: laughology.co.uk

9: Wellness Programs

Prioritising employee well-being is no longer a luxury but a necessity. Wellness programs go beyond the traditional health insurance offerings, aiming to cultivate a holistic approach to employee health, encompassing physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

Consider implementing a range of wellness initiatives tailored to your employees’ needs and preferences. This might include on-site fitness classes like yoga or Pilates, mindfulness and meditation sessions to reduce stress, or workshops on healthy eating and nutrition. You could also partner with local gyms or wellness centers to offer discounted memberships or provide access to virtual wellness platforms that offer a variety of resources and tools. Encourage employees to take breaks, promote work-life balance, and create a supportive environment where they feel comfortable discussing their well-being. By investing in wellness programs, you demonstrate your commitment to your employees’ overall health, leading to increased productivity, reduced absenteeism, and a more positive and engaged workforce.

We’ve heard good things about: superwellness.co.uk

8: Volunteer Opportunities

Giving back to the community not only fosters a sense of purpose and fulfillment among employees but also strengthens team bonds and enhances your company’s reputation. Organising company-sponsored volunteer opportunities allows employees to connect with colleagues on a deeper level while making a positive impact on the world around them.

Consider partnering with local charities or non-profit organisations that align with your company’s values and employee interests. You could organise group volunteer days at a local food bank, animal shelter, or environmental cleanup project. Encourage employees to suggest organisations they’re passionate about and create opportunities for them to lead volunteer initiatives. You can also utilise online platforms that connect companies with volunteer opportunities and manage corporate giving programs. By facilitating volunteer experiences, you demonstrate your company’s commitment to social responsibility and create a culture of empathy and community engagement. This can lead to increased employee morale, improved team collaboration, and a stronger sense of connection to the company’s mission.

We can’t recommend anyone specific here- we’d suggest looking at volunteering opportunities local to your offices.

7: Employee Recognition Programs

Acknowledging and celebrating employee achievements is crucial for fostering a positive and motivating work environment. Employee recognition programs go beyond simple ‘thank you’ notes, offering structured systems for recognising and rewarding employees for their contributions, both big and small.

Consider implementing a comprehensive recognition program that incorporates various forms of recognition, such as peer-to-peer appreciation, manager commendations, and company-wide awards. You could utilise online platforms that facilitate real-time recognition and allow employees to publicly acknowledge their colleagues’ efforts. Explore different reward systems, such as gift cards, extra time off, or personalised experiences, to cater to diverse employee preferences. Encourage managers to provide regular feedback and celebrate milestones, and create opportunities for employees to showcase their achievements. By establishing a culture of recognition, you demonstrate your appreciation for your employees’ hard work, boost morale, and reinforce positive behaviors. This can lead to increased employee engagement, improved productivity, and a stronger sense of loyalty to the company.

There’s a good article on employee recognition program ideas here. 

6: Team-Building Retreats

While traditional team-building retreats can be effective, they often fall short of creating lasting impact. To truly foster collaboration and strengthen team bonds, consider incorporating unique and engaging experiences that go beyond the typical trust falls and icebreakers.

Instead of relying on generic activities, explore options that tap into employees’ creativity, problem-solving skills, and shared interests. Consider organising themed retreats that incorporate escape rooms, interactive workshops, or outdoor adventures. You could also explore activities that align with your company’s values or industry, such as innovation challenges or industry-specific simulations. Encourage employees to participate in the planning process and tailor the retreat to their preferences. By providing a memorable and engaging experience, you can create a shared sense of accomplishment and foster stronger connections among team members. This can lead to improved communication, enhanced collaboration, and a more positive and cohesive work environment.

Check out our article on the best company retreat venues here.

5: On-Site Services

Offering on-site services can significantly enhance employee experience by saving them time and reducing daily stressors. This goes beyond the standard office amenities, providing tangible benefits that improve work-life balance.

Consider offering services like dry cleaning pickup and delivery, mobile car detailing, on-site mobile phone repair, or even pop-up services like massage therapists or barbers. These services can be tailored to the specific needs of your employees and the location of your office. Facilities management teams often play a key role in coordinating and implementing these services, ensuring they are seamlessly integrated into the workplace environment. By providing these conveniences, you demonstrate your commitment to your employees’ well-being and show that you value their time. This can lead to increased employee satisfaction, reduced stress levels, and a more positive and productive work environment. Furthermore, this can also increase the appeal of the workplace itself, which is a key factor in employee retention.

For leading facilities management service, we know these guys are good: cbre.co.uk

4: Company-Sponsored Social Events (with a Purpose)

Social events are a staple of workplace culture, but they can be more than just casual gatherings. By incorporating a purpose beyond simple socialising, you can create meaningful experiences that foster connection, collaboration, and a sense of community.

Consider organising themed events that align with your company’s values or industry, such as industry mixers, networking events, or charitable fundraisers. Encourage employees to participate in the planning process and incorporate their interests and passions. You could also explore opportunities to partner with local businesses or organisations to create unique and engaging experiences. For example, a company with a focus on sustainability might host a volunteer event followed by a social gathering. Creating opportunities for employees to connect outside of their daily work routines can help build stronger relationships and improve communication. These events can also serve as a platform for recognising employee achievements, celebrating milestones, and reinforcing company culture. By designing social events with a purpose, you can create memorable experiences that contribute to a more positive and connected workplace.

We’ve worked with these guys in the past: corporate-events.co.uk

3: Creative Expression Opportunities

As creatives ourselves, we understand the importance of providing outlets for people to express their individuality and tap into their creative potential. Offering opportunities for artistic expression can go beyond traditional team-building activities, fostering innovation, boosting morale, and creating a more engaging workplace.

Consider organising workshops or classes that cater to a variety of creative interests, such as art classes, photography workshops, writing groups, or even improv sessions. You could also create dedicated spaces within the office for creative pursuits, such as a music room, an art studio, or a collaborative writing area. Encourage employees to share their creative work through internal exhibitions or performances, and consider incorporating creative elements into company-wide events. Providing these opportunities not only allows employees to de-stress and unwind but also fosters a sense of community and encourages cross-departmental collaboration. By embracing creative expression, you can cultivate a more vibrant, innovative, and engaging workplace where employees feel empowered to bring their whole selves to work.

We’ve heard good things about: artfulcollective.co.uk

2: Flexible Work Arrangements

flexibility has become a key driver of employee satisfaction and retention. Offering flexible work arrangements demonstrates trust in your employees and empowers them to manage their work-life balance effectively. This goes beyond simply allowing occasional work-from-home days; it involves creating a comprehensive policy that accommodates diverse employee needs.

Consider implementing flexible work hours, compressed workweeks, or remote work options. Establish clear guidelines and expectations, and provide employees with the necessary tools and technology to work effectively from any location. Encourage open communication and collaboration, and ensure that remote employees feel connected to the company culture. You could also explore hybrid work models that combine on-site and remote work, allowing employees to choose the arrangement that best suits their needs. By embracing flexible work arrangements, you can attract and retain top talent, improve employee morale, and enhance productivity. This also allows for a wider range of candidates when hiring, as geographical location is less of a barrier.

There’s a great article on how flexible working can benefit a team and the business as a whole here.

1: Professional Headshot Events

While the preceding ideas offer valuable contributions to workplace experience, one event idea consistently delivers outstanding results and a unique blend of personal benefit and company value: workplace experience headshot events. This initiative transcends the typical workplace perk, offering a tangible asset for employees while simultaneously bolstering the company’s brand image. It’s a win-win.

Imagine transforming a routine workday into an empowering experience where employees receive high-quality, professional headshots instantly. These images become invaluable tools for their LinkedIn profiles, company websites, email signatures, and internal communication platforms. The confidence boost employees receive from a professional photoshoot translates into a more polished and engaged workforce.

The numbers speak for themselves. At American Express, where typical workplace experience events draw 30-50 attendees, our headshot events attracted nearly 500 employees per office. This remarkable turnout underscores the universal appeal of professional headshots and the desire for employees to invest in their personal brand.

From a company perspective, headshot days offer:

• Consistent Branding: Ensuring all employee-facing platforms showcase uniform, high-quality images creates a cohesive and professional brand identity.
• Enhanced Professionalism: Presenting a polished image to clients, partners, and the public reinforces the company’s commitment to excellence.
• Increased Employee Morale: Providing a valuable, personalised perk demonstrates appreciation and fosters a positive workplace culture.
• Streamlined Logistics: Companies like CBRE, who specialise in facilities management and workplace experience, appreciate the ease of implementation. Our team handles all aspects of the event, from setup to image delivery, minimising disruption to the workday.
• A Memorable Experience: Unlike fleeting perks, headshot days offer a lasting experience and a tangible takeaway that employees can utulise immediately.

In a world where digital presence matters more than ever, a professional headshot day is an investment in both individual and company success. It’s a unique blend of experience and ‘swag’ that delivers tangible results and lasting impact. By prioritising employee needs and embracing innovative approaches, facilities management and other relevant teams can cultivate a workplace experience that truly attracts, retains, and empowers their workforce.

Click here to find out more about our workplace experience headshot events.