Beyond Free Snacks: Creating Meaningful In-Person Work Experiences with Stacey Messier

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In this episode, Tessa and Laura explore the evolving landscape of workplace dynamics with Stacey Messier, who brings her unique perspective from managing multiple innovation workspaces across New England. The conversation walks through how organizations can create meaningful in-person experiences that go beyond basic amenities, addressing the challenges of "hushed hybrid" work arrangements and the importance of purposeful collaboration.

In This Episode, You'll Learn:

• Why traditional office perks like snacks are no longer enough to attract employees back to the office
• How to create meaningful content and programming that makes in-person work valuable
• The role of Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) in building engaging workplace communities
• Practical strategies for remote workers to combat loneliness and build professional connections
• The evolution of co-working spaces and their role in the future of work

Quotable Moments: 
"We are out of the land of basic amenities. Now that has become the expectation." - Stacey Messier

"If you're going to bring people into the office and mandate that they got to be there, you have to have the willingness to spend the money to develop the content that will tell them, 'Oh, this is way more than just popcorn.'" 
- Stacey Messier

Practical Takeaway:
Give yourself permission to explore new ways of connecting, whether through organized events, local meetups, or co-working spaces. The key is to be curious and courageous in trying new approaches to professional connection and community building.

Connect With Our Guest:

• [LinkedIn]
• [CIC Website] 
• CIC Locations: Boston, Cambridge, Providence, Philadelphia, St. Louis, Berlin, Rotterdam, Warsaw, Tokyo (and coming soon to Fukuoka)

To stay connected and continue the conversation, be sure to follow us on LinkedIn.

And don't forget to check out our previous episodes for more tips and strategies to boost your workplace happiness. You can find them on your favorite podcast platform or on our website.

If you have any questions, comments, or topic suggestions for future episodes, please reach out to us. We'd love to hear from you!

Stay inspired, stay motivated, and stay happy at work!