Google CEO Sundar Pichai has shed light on the true purpose behind the company’s famous free meal policy, revealing it is more than just a perk for employees. Speaking on Bloomberg’s The David Rubenstein Show, Pichai explained that these communal meals foster collaboration and innovation, making them an integral part of Google’s culture (via NDTV).
As per the report, reflecting on his early days at Google, where he started as a Product Manager in 2004, the CEO of Google highlighted how casual conversations in the company’s cafes often led to the exchange of creative ideas. “I can remember many occasions when, over a meal, I would meet someone, and we would start talking, sparking excitement around new concepts,” he recalled. The relaxed environment, he noted, plays a crucial role in generating fresh ideas and promoting cross-team collaboration.
Pichai emphasised that the cost of providing free meals is outweighed by the long-term benefits, as it helps build a stronger sense of community and encourages innovation. “The value that comes from these interactions far surpasses the expense,” he remarked, positioning the initiative as a strategic investment rather than an unnecessary indulgence.
In addition to its meal policy, the American tech giant is renowned for offering a wide range of employee benefits, including comprehensive health insurance, flexible work arrangements, and wellness programmes. According to Pichai, these incentives have made Google one of the most desirable places to work, with around 90 per cent of job offers being accepted by candidates.
However, some of Google’s employee perks have been scaled back in recent years. In 2023, the tech giant announced plans to reduce the hours of certain cafes and consolidate its micro-kitchens. Despite these changes, Pichai reassured that Google’s benefits package remains one of the most competitive in the industry, influencing other firms to follow suit.
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Published: 22 Oct 2024, 05:33 PM IST
