Ruby Receptionists

In a bright, brick-lined space in the heart of Portland’s Pearl District, a group of headset-wearing workers sit together in close quarters fielding hundreds of phone calls a day from businesses all over the country. They are virtual receptionists when they are here, but outside of work they perform as students, mothers, artists, and a range of other interesting roles.

“This is not the most exciting job and it can be hard on the body to sit all day, so we wanted to provide some kind of fitness stipend to our employees to help them feel good,” says Jill Nelson, the company’s president. As a result, the company agreed to pay for half of any membership to the gym around the corner. Nearly every employee took advantage of the offer, but they found they never went. The reasons ranged from inconvenient class times to not liking the meat market feel of the place. So they decided to try something different—Recess.

To figure out what the staff really wanted in terms of services, the folks at Recess administered a survey. When the results were tallied their desires were clear: They wanted improved health and fitness, they wanted to feel more balanced in their daily lives, and they wanted it to be convenient.

So twice a week, after these virtual receptionists hang up their headsets for the night, they slide their furniture to the side and roll out their sticky mats for an hour of yoga—and they love it!

“Before Recess I did not do any other structured exercise. Now I do yoga here at work and through my school. I can’t get enough,” says receptionist Heather Midgorden.

Besides increasing their flexibility and core strength, and decreasing aches and pains, the Ruby employees admit that the Recess classes have made them feel calmer, more centered, and just plain healthier. Plus, they have taken a lot fewer sick days.

“Since Recess I am much more flexible and have less back pain,” says staff manager Jewelene Thomas.

The benefits of the Recess classes extend well beyond just those of the physical; there have also been emotional improvements. A deeper friendship has formed among Ruby employees, and, they say their work environment has become more playful and supportive. Not to mention that there is a greater sense of loyalty to the company for investing in their health and happiness.

“Recess creates camaraderie among peers and bridges the gap between administration and the rest of the company. It is so much better than happy hour,” says assistant manager Janel Drombrowski.

The stats:

Number of employees: 30
Results:
Increased camaraderie,
improved flexibility,
greater feeling of overall health and wellbeing,
improved employee relations and sense of team.

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