ARE OFFICE RAVES A GOOD IDEA?

Several companies in Montreal are experimenting with a new employee retention strategy: the office rave. “Organizational psychologists believe that employees are more likely to be loyal to a company that embodies their values,” says consultant Bob Greyson. “Millennials are the rave generation. They’re the generation that grew up on techno, teletubbies, and thc. They’re values are rave values, and that’s why more and more businesses are rave-ifying the workplace.”

Consolidated Synergetic Solutions, a tech firm based in the old port of Montreal, starts every work day with a mini rave. “We have a DJ who plays jungle every morning from 7am to 10am,” says CEO Chad Stiff, “and that’s not all. We also give out free glow sticks and water bottles to our employees. Our office raves have really boosted employee morale.”

Jennifer Williams is one such employee. “I used to hate going to work,” says Jennifer. “But now, I can’t wait! Every day starts with a rave. My cubicle used to feel so confining, but now it doesn’t — because i’m allowed to dance in it.”

Not everyone thinks businesses should rave-ify their offices. “What about people who don’t like techno or EDM or dancing or having fun?”, asks lawyer Hubert Sourlaigh. “I think mandatory raving isn’t a good idea. You can’t force your employees to enjoy themselves. If you want to create a welcoming work environment that promotes loyalty, instead of hiring DJs and playing jungle, you should focus on helping your employees accomplish things that bring meaning to their lives. Office raves just distract employees from how terrible their jobs are. It’s just bread and circus for the masses.”

Chad doesn’t see it that way. “Office raves are the future,” says Chad. "Anyone who doesn't want to rave first thing in the morning doesn't deserve to work."