Best companies to work for

January 14, 2013, 6:18 pm James Thomas Today Tonight

'Productivity' is a word commonly used in Australian workplaces as companies explore new ways to get more value out of their employees.

Lifestyle

Read more about

And some businesses are getting great results by making the workplace fun.

Arguably the 'funnest' place to work, internet company Google gives staff access to a masseur and a library with actual books - a novel idea for a workforce who have probably never flicked the page on a real book thanks to the internet world they've created.

Google's Johnny Luu says employees are lavished with perks and privileges, such as the freedom to work where you like, when you like.

More stories from Today Tonight

"Everyone has a laptop, so that allows them to move away from desks, be unchained from their desks if they like, and kind of use a lot of the different spaces as well," Luu said.

"I think it's about providing a flexible workplace."

According to Luu, at Google "people are in charge of their own work schedule ... and that's when you have the happiest employees and the best work comes from that."

Worst sickie excuses


Luu says lazy employees aren't a problem at the tech giant because the staff are "self-motivated people who are passionate about their work."

He might sound like a preacher from a cult, but it's hard to argue with him. Google is one of the most successful companies on the planet, and their 'anything goes' culture seems to be working and catching on with other employers.

Stefan the hairdresses gave some of his workers a car as a Christmas bonus to thank them for their service, and Kennards Hire shared a $3 million bonus amongst its staff.

More stories from reporter James Thomas

Di Bella coffee staff received overseas trips and more cars as a big thank you, while Kellogg's rewards staff by sending them home at 1pm on Fridays.

Michelle Bakar from Kellogg's explains that "we surveyed our team members around three or four years ago and asked them what will make you happier at work."

They all said it was more time away from it. It's a no-brainer, but what's surprising is that Kellogg's granted that request with a four and a half day week, and Michelle Bakar says it has improved the bottom line.



OUR SOCIAL SITES
Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest

COMPARE & SAVE

Yahoo!7 News Preferences

Close

Select your state to see news for your area.