This blog post originally appeared on Paul Saunders’ website.
Bringing pets into the workplace is becoming an increasingly popular trend, forged by the likes of Amazon, Ben & Jerry’s, and Google. Now there are nearly 180 companies following suit in New York City alone.
However, it is important to note that introducing employees’ beloved furry friends to the office is not just some ploy companies are using to attract the newest members of the workforce. Instead, this tactic has been proven to garner positive results on personal and corporate levels, from improving employee morale to decreasing overall turnover.
With that in mind, let us explore the benefits of allowing pets in the workplace.
Pets improve the company’s image
Allowing employees to bring in their pets not only improves their perception of the company but can make a positive impact on customers and prospective hires as well. This is especially true if clients physically visit the business, as the opportunity to interact with an employee’s pet enables them to relax and thoroughly enjoy their time at the establishment.
It is no secret that employees endure elevated stress levels throughout the standard work week. However, bringing one’s pet to the office can allow them to feel more comfortable and optimistic, regardless of the tense situations they may encounter.
Furthermore, a 2012 study by the International Journal of Workplace Health Management found that employees who brought their pets to work had decreased levels of hormonal stress, especially when compared to those who did not bring any pets at all. In fact, those individuals showed steadily increasing levels of hormonal stress until the end of the workday.
Pets increase employee performance
Those who work in pet-friendly environments have been shown to work longer hours, as they no longer have to worry about rushing out of the office to care for their pets at the end of the day. Furthermore, these employees also have fewer absences, likely because they do not have to stay home to tend to their pets when they are sick.
Pets promote positive interactions
As previously mentioned, a pet-friendly workplace improves employees’ morale and decreases stress. Additionally, pets act as a common point of interest, thus creating social opportunities for employees who would otherwise not speak to one another. In the long run, these increased social interactions could aid leaders in fostering an environment of teamwork, collaboration, and communication.
This tactic certainly is not for everyone. However, there are some outstanding benefits to bringing pets into the workplace. Perhaps it is time you consider affording your employees this privilege, as it could boost not only their personal performance but your company’s performance as well.
Paul Saunders 