Dog-friendly offices are becoming increasingly popular, not only do they benefit employees but they can also have a positive effect on the business itself. The incentive of having your four-legged friend in the office is likely to set you apart from your competitors, attract new talent, and highlight your flexible culture and emphasis on work-life balance. As marketing and digital recruiters, we understand how important a positive workplace culture is for candidates seeking new roles in this challenging candidate-led market. If you are looking to join a dog-friendly office or are trying to make a case in favour of canine friendly work spaces, consider these benefits:
- Improved office morale and engagement
Having a few furry friends in the office can make employees happier, feel more motivated, and therefore make them more productive. Knowing that your company opens their doors to your pets and encourages a brilliant workplace culture, can significantly improve office morale.
- Reduction in stress and improved mental health
Dog-friendly offices are known to help ease work-related stress, increase happiness at work, and encourage a lighter atmosphere in the office. According to VetHelpDirect, 90% of UK pet owners say that owning a pet makes them happy and 88% feel as if they improve their quality of life, so it comes as no surprise that many companies are now opening their doors to lovable pets!
- Increases collaboration and work relationships
Bonding over mutual love for dogs is not only a conversation starter but it can help put colleagues at ease, create an upbeat environment, and initiate trust between the team. Dog-friendly offices are not only a chance for you to show off your brilliant pets, but they can more importantly encourage productive work relationships with more socialisation and collaboration amongst the team.
- Encourages more productivity and creativity
Entrepreneur magazine say that by going pet-friendly, productivity rates will increase as you will be more encouraged to take short breaks from your desk, to refresh and improve your focus for when you return. Short breaks are known to help people regain motivation, increase creativity, and prevent the commonly experienced mid-afternoon slump!
- Makes life easier for your employees, resulting in increased employee retention
Welcoming pets into the office will make your employee’s lives easier as they will no longer have to worry about leaving their pets at home or arranging doggy day-care. As a result of offering flexibility, businesses are more likely to experience employee satisfaction which will in turn, result in higher employee retention rates.
- Drives recruitment competitiveness
Pet-friendly offices are likely to attract a larger number of applicants, especially amongst Gen Z and Millennials. You will not only be grabbing the attention of talented job seekers, but you will also be separating yourself from your canine-opposed competitors. Whilst the odd candidate might be put off by muddy paws and occasional barking, the vast majority are in favour of pets in the office.
By allowing dogs into the office, you are not only helping your employees save money by offering flexibility, but you are helping your company stand out. Whilst salary and job title are important, candidates review all benefits when considering a new role. Whilst dog friendly offices are not for everyone, there are many benefits that are certainly worth considering. Who wouldn’t want a few wagging tails around the office!
Recruiting top marketing, communications and digital talent will largely depend on your company values, so embrace what’s important and if you are looking to hire new marketing or digital specialists, contact us today!
NICOLA MONGON is the MD of the digital marketing recruitment agency, Spotlight Recruitment, specialists in marketing, digital, and communications recruitment since 2008. Read our 5* Google reviews from candidates and clients to find out more. If you would like to discuss hiring plans or find out more about us, you can reach Spotlight at 020 3008 4254 or info@spotlightrecruitment.com