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Salar Davari

Gaming at work. Is it acceptable?

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A friend of mine suggested that I should allow or even invite my employees to play a group online game one hour a day. I think it might bring a happier mood to the workplace, but I'm also afraid that they may not take their tasks seriously before and after the game. Do you think I should listen to my friend?

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Ben H
Perhaps only on Fridays so everyone can go home afterwards!
Salar Davari
@ben_h123 But I want something that helps my employees shake of the work pressure in the middle of the day and continue again . The last our of the week won't do me anything good.
Ben H
@salar__davari I don't think games will shake off the pressure in the middle of the day. But you can test it and use the data to make a decision accordingly.
Erkin Bek
It all depends on the company, in general we have such events in our company. It helps to build informal communication, it will be a kind of mini team building. But of course not to get carried away :)
Salar Davari
@erkin_bek Don't you have noise problems while playing?
Erkin Bek
@salar__davari It should not, because we warn you that we will play for one hour on Friday :) and everyone comes to play.
George Burmistrov
Well, if your working schedule is rather pliable and people understand that there is time for entertainment and time for work, you can at least give it a try. During my lunch time I can have maybe a 30 min gaming session from time to time, just for the sake of changing the activity and having a small rest. Our managers play online games when they can and it doesn't affect their efficiency as they are adult people who understand they have responsibilities and that works needs to be done. TL;DR I think you can give it a shot if you are sure of your employees and that they're responsible people.
Salar Davari
@burmistrov Thanks, The fact that everyone is gonna be involved makes me think that it's going to be rather noisy. But, I'll give it a shot.
Jonas Schaller
No, they should do their tasks and then be free, i understand it sounds nice, but its a waste of time, rather stop working an hour earlyer then gaming
If your game developer it will not be fun.
Julia Suontama
I would be careful since people tend to want more once they're used to what's already given. So maybe 1h/day is a lot, but how about once a week? Like Friday thingie? :)
mohsen rajabi
I think it can be useful for more team communication and exchange of ideas.
Salar Davari
@carmen_judson What a strong "no"!! Don't you think there are advantages to consider?
Arsen Batyuchok 🇺🇦
i was playing CS:GO with my fellows on the prev job. I'd say it's only acceptable if you don't collaborate with people in real time. the only thing that bugged people around was that if they wanted to have an ad-hoc conversation they failed when entering a room and seeing that everyone is playing a game.
Ste
Always.
Drew "Sales Playbook Builder" Williams
Yes. 100%. If they enjoy it, then organize a team event around it.
Salar Davari
@drewsalesplaybookbuilder What about the inevitable noise that it involves?
Žiga Kerec
Fun activities can boost the morale of the work environment, but it always needs to be optional. I would not push it as mandatory and just let people go one hour earlier. I always enjoyed these activities and often even stayed late or joined a board game night in the evening. But not everyone did :)
Ivan Dudin
I perceive work as one of the most interesting games and during working hours I don't need any other =) But in the evening I like to play PUGB.
Brian Hurst
We don't game at work, but we sure talk about it (among many other stray, non-work related topics). I encourage my employees to speak openly, which includes the option to talk about topics not related to work. It's definitely helped everyone grow closer and have more fun while they're on the clock.
Elena Tsemirava
You can try it at least and then and then draw conclusions. What if performance improves?
Yuki Ogino
It is your own decision and may depend on the type of work you do.
Abhishek Bhardwaj
Yes, you should give it a try. Maybe on alternate days for 30 min. It will help in releasing the stress in the workplace and help in getting to know other team members in a better way.
C M
You’d be better off doing ‘Guided Group Relaxation/Meditation’. I did this some years ago and folks really enjoyed it/found it useful. From years of experience: the more you give, the more they want. Of course, a lot depends on individual factors, etc. Ultimately, if you’re the boss you go with what you think. You win by it or.. you don’t. I’m not saying you don’t have an idea, simply: be wary.
Ed SK
If everyone's a gamer, why not? I've bonded in the past with my colleagues over games. However, this might alienate those who don't play so you have to be careful with that. Also, some people don't want to mix work with pleasure so keep that in mind.
Shajedul Karim
hey mate, the essence of a thriving workplace lies in the balance of work and play. introducing gaming could foster camaraderie, ignite creativity, and alleviate stress. however, it's crucial to draw clear lines between leisure and responsibility, ensuring one doesn't overshadow the other. so perhaps starting with a designated gaming hour on a friday could serve as a test run, allowing you to gauge its impact on productivity and morale. engaging with your team and seeking their feedback post-initiative could provide invaluable insights into making informed decisions moving forward. it's about creating a culture that embraces relaxation without compromising on dedication. wishing you a harmonious work environment! warm wishes.