In a world where office perks often include flexible hours and free snacks, one Japanese tech company has taken employee engagement to the next level by “hiring” a team of feline staff members. Qnote, a web and app design company, has embraced the presence of cats in their office, transforming the workplace into a hub of creativity, morale, and team bonding.
From Sushi Cat to Chief “Chaircat”
The story began in 2004 when Qnote adopted its first cat, Futaba, from a local sushi restaurant. What started as a single adoption soon turned into a full-fledged feline workforce. Today, the company is home to 10 cat “employees” who roam the office, each with their own designated roles such as “chief clerk,” “manager,” and even “auditor.” Futaba, now 20 years old, holds the prestigious title of “chaircat,” a position that ranks even higher than the company’s CEO, Nobuyuki Tsuruta.
A Feline-Friendly Office
When Qnote moved to a larger, four-story building in 2020, they made sure their cats were well-accommodated. The second and third floors were renovated with the cats in mind, featuring 12 cat toilets, custom cat shelves, and scratch-resistant walls. The cats are more than just pets; they are considered integral members of the team, contributing to a unique office culture.
Cats and Company Culture
Tsuruta, an avid cat lover, shared that many employees are also cat owners, which has created a strong sense of camaraderie within the team. The presence of cats has not only made the office a more enjoyable place to work but has also become a powerful tool for attracting new talent. Job applicants are required to have a love for cats, as the company proudly displays its feline-centric culture on its website, complete with a cat-themed logo.
Interestingly, the cats’ occasional interruptions during work are welcomed by the staff. These moments of distraction serve as natural reminders for employees to take breaks, which has been shown to improve overall productivity and reduce stress. Tsuruta noted that the way employees interact with the cats also provides managers with valuable insights into team dynamics.
A Purr-fect Workplace
The bond between the human and feline employees at Qnote is evident in how the staff cares for their furry colleagues. When the office is closed, employees voluntarily take turns feeding the cats and cleaning their litter trays, treating them like family. The commitment to the well-being of the cats is reflected in their long lives and the deep affection they receive from both the staff and online fans.
The company’s unique approach has garnered admiration online, with many praising the love and care shown to the cats. As one online commenter put it, “A company that’s full of love deserves to thrive and grow.”
Qnote’s innovative and heartwarming approach to office culture serves as a reminder that sometimes, the key to a happy and productive workplace can be as simple as adding a little purr-sonality.
