Do you think your workplace is too strict? ?You might want to work at Zenefits.
Zenefits, based in San Francisco, is a prosperous multi-billion dollar human resources software company. Apparently, it’s infamous for debauchery. Employees were sent letters to stop having sex on the stair steps. These letters circulated only after used condoms and other pieces of evidence were found, like cigarette butts and empty beer cans. One Zenefits letter The Journal obtained went even further. In this one, employees were told not to eat, drink, smoke or have sex on the stairwell. The ‘party’ culture got so intense Zenefits had to find a new CEO and co-founder, after unlicensed salespeople were allowed to sale and trade. In fact, there are pictures of employees pouring hard liquor shots and riding on party buses (carrying bottles of Fireball Whiskey) ?floating all over social media. But Zenefits’ experiences aren’t unique in Silicon Valley. It’s fairly common to offer happy hours and beer on tap, sometimes even in the office. There’s a book accusing Facebook of a ‘fraternity house culture’.
First off, I am not condemning Zenefits at all. In fact, I think they’re onto something. What happened with Zenefits is they took it too far. Some employees got careless and sloppy, and hey, if you abuse privileges, you often lose them. But I think going out for a few beers or glasses of wine could be a good thing, so long as it’s done legally and tactfully. This is a stressful world we live in, and it’s not getting any more relaxing. If it takes a beer cooler, meat lovers pizza and doughnuts, or an designated smoke area to calm nerves, strengthen comrade, and do a good job, then so be it. Just be dignified and responsible about it. I am not advocating Animal House here. But with Americans stressing more than ever and working longer for less, I think it’s time we loosen up some. What would you do if your office turns into hedonism?
Disclaimer: We at Computer Geeks will NOT be held liable for lifestyle choices made by the reader! Please act with responsibility, class and dignity.