I often half-jokingly observe how many organizations seem to be operating from a rulebook established in the 19th century. But some 19th century leaders were clearly ahead of their time. Take Daniel Burnham and John Root, the architects who created the Chicago world's fair in 1893. They understood the importance of creating interesting work environments to spark creative thinking and reduce stress. They installed a gym in their office, played the piano for employees, and even offered employees fencing lessons. (Sounds like they were "the Google" of the 19th century!)

 

Now you may wonder what fencing lessons have to do with designing a world's fair. Yet, more and more organizations are appreciating the benefits of offering a variety of atypical training programs and classes.  Pixar Studios, for example, has its very own Pixar University, where employees can take courses not just in film making, but on other arts, health-related issues, or any topic of interest to the employees. Employees can take up to four hours of classes each week. The courses help boost engagement and creativity, and facilitate relationship-building across different departments. 

 

Employees at the U.K. firm ?What If!  (yes, that's their name) regularly participate in activities such as exotic dance lessons, tree planting and trapeze lessons to stimulate creative connection. The New York ad firm Peppercorn offered standup comedy lessons to help employees think on their feet and communicate more effectively.

 

So don't discount the value of bringing in a chef over lunch to teach employees how to make a souffle that never flops. Or a professional juggler, magician, chess master, mechanic, or, yes, even a fencing trainer. (You can at least take a stab at it. What's the worse that could go wrong?)