The Power of Ten - 10 benefits of a cinema in the workplace

Having a cinema in the workplace can offer several benefits that can positively impact work productivity. Here are ten advantages of having a cinema facility at work:

1. Stress Reduction: Watching movies can be a form of relaxation and escapism, helping employees reduce stress levels. Having a cinema in the workplace provides a convenient outlet for employees to unwind and recharge during breaks, leading to increased productivity.

2. Mental Refreshment: Taking a short break to watch a movie can provide a mental refreshment, helping employees reset their focus and come back to work tasks with renewed energy and concentration.

3. Team Building and Bonding: A workplace cinema can serve as a venue for team-building activities, movie nights, or shared movie experiences. It promotes social interaction, fosters relationships among colleagues, and strengthens team bonds, which can positively impact collaboration and productivity.

4. Creativity and Inspiration: Movies often spark creativity and inspiration. Exposing employees to different stories, perspectives, and ideas through a workplace cinema can stimulate creative thinking, problem-solving, and innovation in their work.

5. Learning Opportunities: Movies can be educational and informative, offering opportunities for learning and personal development. Hosting screenings of educational or motivational films can contribute to continuous learning and inspire employees to apply new insights to their work.

6. Work-Life Balance: Having a cinema at work supports work-life balance by providing employees with a convenient outlet for relaxation and leisure activities. It allows them to enjoy recreational time without needing to leave the workplace, fostering a healthier work-life integration.

7. Employee Engagement and Satisfaction: Offering a cinema facility demonstrates an organisation's commitment to employee well-being and satisfaction. It can enhance employee engagement, boost morale, and contribute to a positive work culture that values employee happiness.

8. Attraction and Retention of Talent: A workplace cinema can be an attractive perk for potential employees, especially for those who value work-life balance and recreational activities. It can differentiate the organisation and contribute to attracting and retaining top talent.

9. Stress Relief and Improved Mood: Watching movies is known to elicit positive emotions and improve mood. Having access to a workplace cinema allows employees to de-stress, relax, and experience moments of enjoyment, resulting in a more positive and productive work environment.

10. Cultural Appreciation and Diversity: A cinema in the workplace can promote cultural appreciation and diversity. Showcasing a variety of films from different genres, cultures, and languages can broaden employees' horizons, enhance their understanding of diverse perspectives, and foster a more inclusive workplace culture.

Implementing a workplace cinema requires careful consideration of space, resources, and appropriate usage policies. It's essential to strike a balance between providing leisure opportunities and ensuring that work responsibilities are not compromised.

Note about the author: Andrew Hulbert is a multi-award winning entrepreneur, non-exec director, speaker, author, platelet donor and philanthropist. The ‘Power of Ten’ summarises Andrew’s learnings across the last decade and looks to share some of the valuable mistakes, lessons and learnings during that time. For a succinct summary of Andrew’s career you can visit: https://www.iwfmawards.org/previous-winners/winner-outstanding-contribution-to-workplace-and-facilities-management-2022/ . If you’d like to start a conversation, please direct message on LinkedIn.