How do you treat your employees?
When you see them in the morning, do you greet them with a warm smile and say, “Hello, how are you today?”
Or do you briefly acknowledge them, give them instructions then begin your hectic morning?
There's no question, if you want to attract and retain quality bookkeepers, you should have a healthy and fun workplace environment.
But, how far are you willing to go to actually do it?
For the historically conservative bookkeeping industry, trying something new isn’t always easy.
Like many human beings, bookkeepers are creatures of habit.
Well, there’s an American bookkeeping company that is going against the grain.
Introducing Bookkeeping Express.
The Arlington, Virginia-based operation is implementing the West Coast tech startup mentality with its work culture.
What does that mean?
The company gives its employees various perks, such as free lunches and a stocked break room, to keep them engaged and happy.
“We work a lot and sometimes long days,” Bookkeeping Express CEO, Keith Mueller told Fast Company. “We want our workplace to be comfortable and almost a second home. Part of home is soft drinks, water bottles, snacks, coffee and tea. Oh, we might also have beer and wine.”
By the way, Bookkeeping Express also has a beer pong table in the main office.
“Friday evenings. Need I say more?,” says Mueller. “Plus, we need to cover up the foosball table with something when we need a conference table.”
Obviously, this level of generosity would be for bookkeeping business owners who could actually afford it.
Regardless, the core of the message is to treat your staff well.
Make them feel appreciated.
Find what connects with your people by asking them what you could do better to create a more enjoyable work environment.
It’s worth the effort.
To your success,
Michael