The search starts today to find the South West’s happiest workplace – and staff working for Swindon’s forward-looking businesses are being encouraged to take part.
The contest, launched last year in Bristol and Bath, proved so popular that organisers workplace and interior design consultancy Wylde Interior Architecture have extended it cover the entire region. 
They want staff from firms in Swindon and across Wiltshire to enter their organisations to show what separates a happy workplace from the humdrum, boring and run of the mill.
Everyone knows that great workspaces attract and retain great staff – and that feeds through into higher quality work and less absenteeism.
But is it all about air hockey tables in reception, AstroTurf in the lift and inflatable ‘break out igloos’ – or is there more to it than that? The 2016 Happiest Workplace competition will recognise and reward those organisations that go the extra mile to make their staff’s working lives happier – and showcase them as examples for other less-enlightened workplaces to aspire to.
Last year’s contest attracted more than 300 entrants. The winner, Bristol-based skateboard distribution firm Shiner, attributed its success to being “laid back with no egos”.
Employees, most of whom are skateboarding enthusiasts, get a clothing allowance and discounts on products as well as a quarterly bonus scheme. There are also regular staff barbecues – the firm staged a celebratory one after winning the Happiest Workplace award.
This year Bristol-based Wylde has joined forces with Herman Miller, the Chippenham-based furniture manufacturer and pioneer of the modern workplace. The competition is being supported by Swindon Business News, whose editor Robert Buckland will sit on the judging panel with Herman Miller workplace specialist Bertie Van Wyk.
Bertie said: “Our research consistently shows a link between employee happiness and the place that they work, so I am delighted to be involved in judging this competition and am looking forward to seeing this year’s contenders.”
The Happiest Workplace contest was initially launched to celebrate Wylde’s 18 years in the business. The company wanted to find out exactly what makes a great workplace and, therefore, happy staff.
This year winner will receive a stunning Herman Miller height adjustable desk with monitor arm and beautiful Sayl desk chair. These striking Sayl office chairs are also available for the nine runners up. There will also be a plaque to proudly display in the winning workplace.
Mayor of Bristol George Ferguson – who presented Shiner with last year’s award – said: “I’m delighted to show my support for the Wylde’s Happiest Workplace Competition again this year.
“Having a happy working environment is both great for employees and key for the productivity and success of a business. The South West region has once again proven to be one of the fastest growing economic areas in the UK, a clear demonstration of how many productive and successful up and coming businesses there are here.
“I am therefore expecting to see some great entries this year and am certain the competition will be as strong as ever. I would strongly encourage employers to support this important competition and prized accolade.”
Wylde director Maxine Bennett added: “Our Happiest Workplace competition has flagged up all kinds of reasons why staff are happy at work. Company ethos, respect and social activities rank alongside beautifully designed, creative spaces.
“These two aspects of working life tend to run hand in hand to provide the (almost) perfect formula for a content and productive workforce. We’re thrilled to be launching the 2016 competition today and can’t wait to see the next raft of entries.”
Wylde IA is an award-winning independent interior design consultancy, trading for almost 20 years. The company specialises in creative design, working directly with clients throughout the UK and Europe in partnership with external suppliers, architects and fit-out companies to create inspiring places.
Interested companies can find more information at www.wyldeia.co.uk They can also follow the contest at @Wyldelife and #wyldehappyoffice
