Managing an office has never been more challenging. Job security is at an all-time low, people are stressed, and world events seem to be going haywire every twenty minutes. Where did the murder hornets go? We also have the issue of coronavirus health and safety to consider, with potential new strains of the virus finding ways to combat our current safety measures—yes; a lot is going on.
The little things that bring joy and confidence to our staff have never been more critical. Office managers and supervisors worldwide are looking for ways to help their employees adjust and flow with the new normal. Something as small as a cup of coffee can make a big difference right now. The following will explore the value of a high-quality beverage in the modern office environment.
Caffeine Has A Positive Effect On Energy Levels And Intelligence
Let’s get the most apparent benefit out on the table first. Coffee and tea contain a stimulant called caffeine. Caffeine is the most commonly consumed psychoactive substance in the world, and for a good reason. When caffeine is absorbed into the bloodstream and then the brain, it blocks adenosine (an inhibitory neurotransmitter). This increases other neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine. Several controlled studies have shown these outcomes to improve several aspects of brain function, including energy levels, memory, vigilance, reaction times, and general mental function. That’s a lot of benefits that can have a positive impact not only on your employees but on the work they produce as well.
Coffee Might Decrease Depression In Women
The Harvard School of Public Health conducted a study examining the connection between coffee and depression in women. They found that the risk of depression was 20% lower in women who drank four or more cups of caffeinated coffee per day. Previous studies also suggested a link between depression risk and coffee for men.
Hot Drinks Feel Like A Treat
We’ve all been there—having a groggy day where nothing seems to be going quite right, and we sit down with a steaming hot cup of coffee, and suddenly, it’s easier to see what needs to be done. Coffee feels like a little treat in the middle of the day that can help boost our mood and problem-solving abilities—the effect can be increased if the coffee feels extra luxurious with steamed milk or is ground from finese coffee beans. Take note of the coffee culture in your office—what sort of drinks do people run out and grab on their breaks? A little pumpkin spice cream can take a standard coffee and make it feel like magic.
Boosts Productivity
Yes, you read that right. Drinking coffee boosts productivity. This means that your bottom line looks better, your employees are getting done what they need to in a reasonable period of time (which is a big component of motivation as well), and no one is left feeling like their day is wasted. The productivity increase that comes from coffee might be due to the improved mood described above, the more efficient mental processing, or the higher energy levels. Maybe it comes from a combination of all three and the massive antioxidant boost that coffee provides.
Helps Facilitate A Positive Office Culture
When it comes to employee satisfaction, study after study points to the value of company culture. Of course, this is going to look different for every business and industry—no one company is the same. Having a place where people can speak to one another outside the standard seating arrangements can help facilitate this. Some employees get more creative with problem-solving as they take a little walk. Colleagues might meet up in the kitchen to brew their coffee and talk through a pitch or problem. People might be more apt to offer emotional support and encouragement over a cup of coffee. The possibilities are endless when it comes to office culture.
The above points should help illustrate some of the benefits of including coffee in your workplace. Of course, be aware that not every staff member is likely a coffee drinker. It’s a great idea to have teas and decaf options available so everyone can feel included and reap the rewards of a hot drink on a dreary day. It is also important to note that if you sense high levels of anxiety, stress, or depression among your staff, a cup of coffee isn’t the only thing you should be offering. Make sure that your team members have an outlet whereby they can express concerns they have and that you’re reaching out to those who seem to be having a hard time.
