by Robert D-Vera
In light of today’s industrial landscape, it’s becoming more and more important for companies to maintain happy and productive employees.
When employees are untroubled they are more loyal and engaged with your business, allowing for better productivity and efficiency. Contrariwise, when people feel undervalued and unmotivated, your company can become weak and frail from underperformance.
Studies show that when employees are engaged they’ll be more eager to complete their tasks, are more enthusiastic about changes, and are willing to work harder.
Trying to keep employees happy in any industry can be hard work. This is partially because happiness is relative. Friends, family and workplace environment can boost or detract someone’s level of happiness. Certainly, if the workplace doesn’t inspire positivity, this could result in employee stress. Increased stress often leads to decreased performance.
Use the following guidelines to keep your workplace happy and productive:
1. Set Clear Expectations
A good employer is someone who sets vivid expectations to employees, which include: What needs to be done, when it is to be done, and what to do once that task is completed. For these expectations you need to set clear boundaries, show commendable leadership, and give sound direction.
For whatever expectation you are trying to set, make sure they are consistent. Include things like clocking in early, and coffee break or lunch hours. For instance, would it be all right to log in early and leave work early? Or are breaks mandatory? The clearer your expectations are, the fewer problems there will be, allowing your employees to work undisturbed.
2. Make Employees Feel Valued
Encourage your employees and offer them praise when necessary. Do not hesitate to say “thank you” for doing a good job. This simple act could make them feel that their efforts are being noticed and appreciated. Should something go wrong or someone commits a mistake, do not hastily punish that person. Rather, talk to them and teach the correct procedure. Offer further assistance when needed. However, if errors continue to happen, evaluate the individual to ensure that they are a good fit for the job.
Further, as an employer, you have the opportunity to make your employees’ day. This could mean a smile, asking how they feel, or asking if there are any problems they are encountering on their tasks. If you notice an employee is going through a difficult time, help provide them the necessary resources to work through the situation.
Never treat your employees as if they are machines used for mere business operations. Try to balance between being an approachable and team-oriented leader, not strict or feared. Treating employees as part of your family would help them handle the work pressure, and boost the interests of the employees to keep on working, thus nurturing their company loyalty as well.
3. Initiate a Productive Atmosphere
The entire physical layout of your office is extremely important in maximizing your people’s productivity. Individuals need enough space, correct materials, and a comfortable and pleasant environment. This can include
ergonomically designed equipment, which helps facilitate positivity among workers.
Studies reveal that people feel better about themselves and others when they feel a connection to nature. In fact, individuals who do their work near plants or windows report significant task efficiency. However, if you cannot provide live plants as an option, pictures or murals of an outdoor scene could be a viable alternative.
4. Make People More Involved
Make employees feel involved by conducting regular meetings where everyone can voice their concerns and opinions. Also, you can host special events such as picnics or workshops for employees and their families.
5. Keep Them Happy To Keep Them Effectively Working
When workers feel that they are a valuable part of the team, they can be more productive and willing to go further for their customers and co-workers. Make sure to have employees involved in reaching goals, and give them praise openly. Listening to your staff helps keep them loyal and engaged. When things are positive around the workplace, your company can withstand any economic adversities.
Robert D-Vera is the content manager of LinkVista Digital Inc., a digital marketing agency specializing in search engine optimization and content marketing. He strives to keep a positive working environment in a highly competitive industry of digital marketing.