The Rise of Alternative Workplaces

A whopping 85% percent of Americans aren't living their dream, according to a recent study examined on MSN.com. As we "mature," it seems we gravitate toward stability and salary instead of the whimsical aspirations we held on to as kids. The number one reason for this low rate of job satisfaction? Lack of fun at the workplace.

It's unfortunate that we regard the activities we explored as youths as immature - as "child's play." We used to take naps, dance to the rhythm in our heads, and add life to inanimate objects. Then, sometime in the teen years, we learn that adults do not behave this way; that we need to "grow up." But aren't we missing something here?

Fortunately, the trend of alternative workplaces has been growing due to the large shift in economic globalization, technological advancements, and the reliance on the Internet. More companies are taking in consideration family lives and obligations, allowing their employers to essentially design their own work schedule.

Companies like Google, Weiden and Kennedy, and a little known company in Portland, Oregon called Pacific Marketing and Publishing are changing the face of employment protocol. No dress codes, time clocks, or hierarchy are heralded at these alternative work forces. Instead, there are pool tables, ping-pong sets, open rooms filled with sculptures and innovative interior design. Google even offers free gourmet foods to their comfortably dressed employees. Workers don't punch in because they don't need to; going to work is a pleasure, much like it was going to kindergarten.

Productivity can only increase when workers are enjoying what they do. Time flies when we're having fun, and it's about time corporations took note of that reality. According to the new book, Managing the Reinvented Workplace, 60% of American companies are implementing these kinds of strategies. In return, reports of job satisfaction, health, and retention are skyrocketing. Employers can hold on to workers that benefit them longer as they don't have to worry about them prospecting for better benefits or office perks.

The rise of this practice may stem from the burgeoning awareness of at-home workers who have taken advantage of the Internet. Sites like Associated Content, Suite 101, and GetaFreelancer attract hundreds (if not thousands) of homebody freelance writers, and more and more businesses are outsourcing data entry and telecommunications assignments.

Many workers who aren't so lucky have been instigating change in their companies as well. More and more Americans are negotiating not just salary, but vacation time, health benefits, stick options, and flex-schedules which allow them to complete much of their work at home. The possibilities are becoming endless, and the potential for any old Joe to find his dream job are growing exponentially.

If you're on the job search, consider all of these factors. Remember that the power of negotiation can turn a lackluster position into a schedule that fits your life, your passions, and the childhood dreams you let go of too soon.