Eleventy Marketing Group Enjoys its First Puppy Friday

AKRON, OH, January 16, 2013 (Press-News.org) Data-driven marketing company eleventy launched a new employee initiative on Friday, Jan. 11— Puppy Friday.

eleventy's Puppy Friday aims to reduce stress, increase productivity, encourage employee interaction and exercise, and create a healthier, happier workplace. Dog-owning employees from each suite are encouraged to bring their dogs into the office on their scheduled Friday. With two suites forming the eleventy workplace, you can find two or more dogs in the office on any given Friday.

"Allowing employees to bring their dogs into work is a proven way to reduce stress and absenteeism, increase productivity and employee interaction and promote healthier habits," said eleventy President Ken Dawson. "When a dog comes over and lays by your feet or licks your hand, the stresses of the week just seem to fade away. Many of the employees have told me how their mood immediately brightened when they saw one of the dogs, even when if it wasn't their own."

In a study published in the March 2012 issue of the International Journal of Workplace Health Management, Virginia Commonwealth University found that dogs in the workplace reduce stress during the workday for their owners and make the job more satisfying for those with whom they come into contact. Having pets present in the workplace serves as a low-cost wellness initiative that enhances organizational satisfaction and employee morale.

"Having dogs in the workplace definitely changes the atmosphere. The dogs reset the mood and allow creativity to flow, which is extremely important in the marketing business," Dawson said.

While dogs in the workplace show positive benefits for employees, eleventy made sure to get the permission and approval of all employees before moving forward with the initiative.

"If there were any objections due to allergies, fear of dogs or any other reason, I would have not proceeded. I made sure to take into account all of my employees feelings about it before beginning. From the feedback I received, the first eleventy Puppy Friday was a huge success and everyone enjoyed having dogs in the office," Dawson said.

eleventy provides data-driven marketing solutions for nonprofit organizations and businesses across industries. We use data to drive actionable recommendations on audience, message and channel that improve your bottom line.