[Unpopular?] Opinion: Are Your "Office Highlights" Scoring Points with the Right Talent?

We've all seen them – the job postings that boast trendy office amenities, seemingly designed to lure in the best and brightest. This week, one such "highlight reel" landed in my inbox, and frankly, it left me less than impressed. Nestled within the description of a role in sunny Scottsdale, AZ, were these supposed gems:

• Modern office design

• Fully equipped gym is available to all employees

• Basketball Court – Perfect way to take a break and recharge during the day!  

Now, while a pleasant workspace is appreciated, and the option of a gym is a nice-to-have for some, the emphasis on a basketball court as a key "highlight" raises some serious questions. It begs the question: Who exactly are you trying to attract, and more importantly, who are you potentially excluding?

My immediate reaction wasn't one of excitement about lunchtime pick-up games. Instead, a wave of concern washed over me. Are these truly "office highlights" that benefit a diverse workforce, or are they a reflection of the company owners' personal passions bleeding into their recruitment strategy?

Let's be honest, a basketball court isn't a universal perk. While some employees might relish the opportunity for a midday scrimmage, many others will find it irrelevant, inaccessible, or even exclusionary. Consider the following:

• Individuals with disabilities: Is the court accessible? Does the emphasis on physical activity inadvertently signal that this isn't a workplace that truly embraces inclusivity for individuals with mobility challenges or other disabilities?

• Employees with different interests: Not everyone is a sports enthusiast. Highlighting a basketball court as a key perk ignores the diverse range of interests and ways employees might choose to "recharge" during the day. Perhaps someone prefers a quiet walk, meditation, or simply a peaceful break in a comfortable common area.

• The underlying message: Does prioritizing a basketball court over more fundamental benefits like robust health insurance, flexible work arrangements, or professional development opportunities send the message that the company values athletic prowess over holistic employee well-being and career growth?

Instead of focusing on niche recreational facilities, perhaps it's time for companies to re-evaluate what truly constitutes a "highlight" for a diverse and talented workforce. Consider emphasizing:

• Comprehensive healthcare: And actually post what it may cost the employee. If the healthcare is going to take the employee's paycheck, how affordable is it?

• Flexible work options: Recognizing the diverse needs and preferences of today's workforce.

• Opportunities for professional development and growth: Investing in your employees' future. Training classes, tuition reimbursement, possible promotions that can come from the job.

• Generous paid time off and parental leave: Supporting work-life balance. Employees do not want to live and play at the job site.

• A culture of respect, inclusion, and psychological safety: Creating an environment where everyone feels valued and can thrive.

The Retention Risk: Basketball Isn't a Golden Handcuff

Beyond the concerns of exclusion and misaligned priorities, there's a significant risk associated with relying on trendy, non-essential perks to attract and retain talent: poachable employees.

While the allure of a midday basketball game might initially pique the interest of some candidates, that novelty is likely to wear off quickly. When the reality of daily work sets in, and employees face the usual challenges and stresses, those superficial perks become far less appealing than fundamental support and security.

Imagine an employee who initially joined for the "fun" office environment, complete with its basketball court. Now, a recruiter reaches out from a company offering:

• Comprehensive and affordable healthcare: A benefit that directly impacts their family's well-being and financial security.

• Flexible work options: Allowing them to better manage their personal and professional lives.

• Tangible opportunities for professional development and growth: Demonstrating an investment in their future career.

• Generous paid time off and parental leave: Providing crucial support for life events and work-life balance.

• A documented culture of respect, inclusion, and psychological safety: Promising an environment where they feel valued and can thrive.

Suddenly, that basketball court doesn't seem so enticing anymore. The recruiter isn't selling a fleeting recreational opportunity; they're offering tangible benefits that address fundamental needs and long-term career aspirations.

Companies that prioritize flashy perks over substantive benefits are essentially building their employee base on a foundation of sand. When competitors offer genuine value and support, those employees are far more likely to listen and make the jump. The cost of constantly replacing employees due to a lack of meaningful benefits will far outweigh the initial investment in a basketball court.

In essence, you can't dribble your way to long-term employee loyalty. True retention is built on a foundation of respect, support, opportunity, and genuine care for employee well-being – things a basketball court simply can't provide.

It's easy to get caught up in the allure of trendy office perks, believing they contribute to a vibrant company culture. However, true culture isn't built on a basketball court; it's fostered through respect, inclusivity, fair treatment, opportunities for growth, and a genuine commitment to employee well-being. When your "office highlights" inadvertently exclude a significant portion of the potential talent pool and fail to address fundamental employee needs, it's time to step back and ask: Are we really scoring with our recruitment strategy, or are we just shooting air balls?