3 ideas for small business perks

Stories have been told how some of the biggest companies in the world like tech giants Google and Facebook have transformed the workplace into a veritable playground for their employees. From pool tables to massages and food bars as well as relaxation spaces and exercise areas, working hard appears to be just as important as playing hard.

The main reason behind these perks is employee attraction and then retention, in addition to creating a comfortable, inspiring workplace. While smaller businesses may have these exact same goals, they may not have the capital to be investing in a state of the art, Silicon Valley office. This however, does not mean you can't be innovative on a smaller budget, especially if you're looking to develop your small business. 

1. Flexible work spaces

Standing desks have become a real trend in workplaces across the world. While it may seem like a fad, studies have shown that standing up at work can actually prove beneficial for cognitive performance as well as general health, according to Dr James A Levine.

By not restricting employees to a traditional desk setup, you can give them the freedom to work the way they feel suits them best.

2. Nap space

Taking a short siesta might be just the thing to keep your employees alert throughout the day, especially as many of us come to work without the optimum amount of sleep. You all know the feeling. Slow reaction times, difficulty focusing, the constant yawning.

According to Science Daily, researchers in France have found that by taking a 30 minute power nap, we can reverse the hormonal effects of a bad night's sleep. If your employees want a place to rest their heads during their break, why not help them out with a dedicated nap zone? It might just bring them back refreshed and alert for the rest of the day.

3. Staff outings

By arranging a staff outing, a dinner, or even a round at your local, you give your team an opportunity to get to know each other outside of their usual environment. Whether it's to mark a special milestone, or just to celebrate the end of a successful month, a planned event on any scale gives employees something to look forward to.

While making an extra effort is something employees can appreciate, Patrick Lynch, owner of research company The Frontier Group, provides a different take on supporting his employees' welfare.

"I would like to offer a somewhat different perk that is incredibly important but not quite as sexy: continued employment," he told Forbes Magazine.

"There are countless small business owners like myself that sacrifice personal compensation for the sake of keeping their team in place — not having to downsize during tough times, not having to reduce hours.This may not be as cool as a juice bar or foosball table, but it shows employees that their CEO cares and values them."