Elly Oderkerk, facilities manager at Visma Software, shares her insights on well-being in their hybrid workplace.

In the Sip & Share series, Colin, co-founder of Dripl, engages with our clients to find out how they approach workplace wellness. We share fun insights and practical tips that will help you build a positive workplace culture.

Hey Elly 👋

Elly Oderkerk has been working as a facilities manager at Visma Software in Amsterdam for five years. Visma is a Norwegian company that develops business software for accounting and financial administration, with a strong focus on small and medium-sized businesses. Elly is the linchpin of the organization, ensuring that everyone—in her own words—has a good time!

👉 Hybrid working model

Elly explains how Visma implements its hybrid work model. "We have a three-story industrial building where various departments, such as communications, finance, and programming, work side by side. Employees come to the office twice a week, some more often than others."

"There are no fixed workstations, which offers flexibility. Everyone can choose where they want to work, whether that's at a desk, on a bench, or in the breakout room. This flexibility is great, but it also brings challenges, especially when it comes to connection and collaboration.

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👉 Commit to connection and relaxation

That's precisely why Visma prioritizes moments of connection and relaxation. "When we returned after the COVID period, we looked for ways to make the work environment more pleasant, so people would enjoy coming back to the office. We set up a relaxation area with a pool table, games, and a dart board..."

"It is important that everyone has the opportunity to take a break from work. In addition, we regularly organize events and outings where colleagues can also connect off the job, which strengthens team spirit."

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👉 Mental support with OpenUp

An important tool for Visma is the OpenUp tool. "OpenUp offers employees access to mental health support and coaching. Employees can easily schedule an appointment with a psychologist or participate in stress management training. This is all done anonymously, so employees feel free to seek help without worrying about stigma or misunderstandings. We want to create an environment where everyone receives the right support when they need it," Elly emphasizes.

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👉 Healthy enjoyment

Visma recently transitioned to healthier and more sustainable drink options, partnering with Dripl. Elly explains: "We've adapted our drink offerings to eliminate cans and offer healthier choices. Of course, avoiding waste is important to us, but it's also about offering tasty treats in the office. This makes it even more appealing for employees to catch up not only at the water cooler, but also at the Refill Point."

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👉 Feedback culture

To continuously improve its well-being policy, Visma conducts monthly surveys. "We measure job satisfaction, employee experiences with their managers, and overall workplace safety. This continuous feedback is crucial for us. We monitor the results and adjust our approach as needed," says Elly.

"It is important that all employees are listened to. Whether it is the director or the cleaner, if someone has a good idea, it is seriously considered." Elly adds, "We also work closely with other facilities coordinators within Visma. That way we share best practices and make sure every office benefits from good ideas."

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📝 Key Takeaways for your team or office

• Hybrid work model: Hybrid working is a great way to give your employees flexibility and freedom, but don't forget to put extra effort into creating a nice office environment.
• Commit to togetherness: Organize social events and create relaxation spaces so that employees have a chance to relax and build relationships.
• Mental support: Implement accessible and anonymous mental health resources such as OpenUp so that everyone feels supported.
• Feedback as a basis: Get everyone talking regularly and working together as a team to learn from each other.

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Discover the impact of Dripl at Visma Software

"The demand for sugar-free drink options at home and at work is increasing, and Dripl is a perfect fit. We continue to surprise our employees with healthy and sustainable choices that increase their job satisfaction!" - Elly Oderkerk, Facilities Officer at Visma Software.

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⬇️ Comes with a side of case study

Wondering how Visma in Amsterdam with over 100 employees is drinking Dripl? Find out how they made the switch to packaging-free soft drinks, how it was received by their team, and what it yielded - from less CO₂ to more chatter at the Refill Point!

Check out the Dripl Case