Book clubs are a great way to socialize with your co-workers about non-work related subjects.
Nowadays, book clubs are popping up all over. Thanks in part to Oprah's revitalization of the book club as a concept, reading is once again becoming a popular leisure activity, as well as a means by which people can connect and socialize. From libraries, to websites, to TV shows, book clubs are sprouting up everywhere we look. Considering that the average full-time employee spends at least 35 hours per week in the office, why not introduce the book club to the work environment as well?
Benefits of an At-Work Book Club
By forming a book club in the office, you will bring people together that normally might not have an opportunity to interact because of their varying job duties. This also breaks down barriers among those on differing levels of the corporate ladder. Because everyone shares a common interest, book clubs can also contribute to increasing socialization among coworkers.
Another benefit of in office book clubs is that they serve as a morale booster. When companies offer their employees an opportunity to indulge in something that they enjoy, it increases their productivity and overall satisfaction with their job.
How To Start an At-Work Book Club
You will most likely be able to recruit those who have an open interest in reading more easily. Consider striking up a conversation next time you spy one of your co-workers with a book in their hand. Tell them that you are interested in forming an at work book club and ask them if they would be interested in joining.
As soon as you have a few people who have shown an interest in the idea of an at work book club, word of mouth will naturally spread around the office. Post some flyers on the public bulletin board and write up a blurb for your company's newsletter. Try to generate as much interest in the book club as possible.
Once you have enough people to launch your book club, decide upon a meeting time, day and place. Generally book clubs meet once a week or once a month. Also be sure that your company gives their approval for the meeting to be held within the office. Most companies will not have a problem offering up an unused conference room during lunch hour for a reading group. Make sure that the place you choose is quiet enough to allow for comfortable discussion. Encouraging members to bring their lunch or something to share with the group can be a great idea as well.
Book clubs allow co-workers to come together in a non-traditional work format and provides them with an outlet for something they all feel mutually passionate about. Not only will you be able to interact with your co-workers on an entirely different level than what you are typically accustomed to, but you will also be encouraging socialization and promoting company morale as well.
