Employers, listen up! A happy workforce can do wonders for your bottom line.
Employers, here’s some news you can use: A positive work environment contributes to better performance, higher productivity, less absenteeism and turnover, and fewer accidents.
This is just another way of saying that happy employees are good for your company’s bottom line.
Plus, you can achieve all this at little, or no, cost:
First, seek out ways to offer praise and recognition. Let people know you noticed when they stayed late, came in early or met a seemingly impossible deadline. Reward the steady, reliable contributors — these folks in particular often feel unsung. Take a genuine interest in all your staff, and be consistent about providing positive feedback (hint: you don’t need to wait till review time). Feeling underappreciated at work is a top reason people leave their jobs. Turnover is expensive. Don’t let it happen to you.
A second powerful way to help employees feel good about their work is to clue them in on the big picture. Spell out how their role fits into the larger scheme of things. Share goals, strategy and plans for the future. It gives people a sense of greater connection and community, and inspires them to do better jobs.
Speaking of doing a better job, why not consider asking everyone what they feel they need to turn in better work? Their answers may surprise you. Changes as simple (and low cost) as rearranging workstations, adjusting the office thermostat or moving noisy equipment can make a huge difference. While you’re at it, you should also ask people if they have skills and abilities they believe could be better utilized. Who knows, you could be getting a lot more out of your workforce. And they will become more engaged and enthusiastic.
Finally, be open to more substantive changes, as well. Perks like flexible schedules and the option to occasionally work from home are popular with many employees. They are also excellent ways to make people feel competent and cared for at the same time.
See? You don’t have to kick in for an expensive latte machine, a massage station, free lunches or a nap pod. All you need to do is to create a supportive, transparent atmosphere where everyone’s contributions are recognized and valued.