While most employers are usually focused on how to increase the productivity of their employees, they usually fail to realize that their productivity level is closely tied to the quality of life they’re having in a company.
Recent studies have shown that companies that provide a better quality of work to their employees have much better retention rates, while they also have an easier time hiring top people in their field.
Studies have also shown that happier employees are less likely to take sick leave, which means that happier workers are also healthier workers. Whether it’s a team activity outside of work or a fun zone at the office, there are many ways in which you can increase employee happiness.
Show Trust Instead of Micromanaging Everything
Trust me, no one enjoys doing a job where they’re told what to do all the time. While it’s perfectly fine for you to manage and supervise their work, micromanaging rarely has a positive impact on your staff.
Instead, try to build your relationship on trust – where you as an employer delegate tasks that require high responsibility, or at least make it seem that way. Let them make some decisions and all of a sudden you’ll have employers who are committed to what they’re doing.
Reward Good Work
Constant recognition is something that employers have found to be of vital importance when it comes to quality of work for your employees. Whether it’s a simple recognition, or a reward (a raise, bonus, or an additional day off), employees feel much better when their effort is noticed.
Many employers avoid even complimenting their workers because they feel that they may ask for a raise if they do. But if a certain individual is doing more work than average, wouldn’t you say that they deserve to be paid for the extra work?
This is also one of the reasons why more and more young people start freelancing – because they actually get paid for the work they do, not the time spent in an office.
Customizable Workspace
People love customizing their workspace, and when it comes to their desks there are almost no reasons to be opposed to it. While some people like having their favorite posters on the wall behind their monitor, other people might want to bring a plant from home.
I’ve even seen people who prefer to work on a desktop while standing in order to improve posture. Some of the top performers I’ve seen love working in a messy environment, which required us to hire a commercial cleaning company at the end of each week.
Allowing your employees a certain amount of freedom when it comes to customizing their workspace will positively impact productivity, while they’ll also be happier to work for you.
Set Clear Goals
The best way to improve the efficiency of your employees is by setting up clear goals for them to aim for. Without clear goals, productivity will drop considerably, but also their overall happiness. This is why it’s important to give clear assignments and expected results to the people who work for you.
Setting these goals should be taken seriously because if they’re unrealistic or generic they won’t have as much power. Probably the best way to approach this issue is to set individual goals for the people who work for you.
If you employ a lot of people, delegate this task to supervisors and make it a part of their job. The more these goals are realistic and attainable the better results you’ll have and thus improve your employees’ loyalty.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can a company measure employee happiness and satisfaction?
Companies can measure employee happiness through surveys, feedback sessions, and performance reviews. Regular check-ins and anonymous feedback tools also provide insights into employee satisfaction.
Are there any specific training programs to improve employee morale?
Yes, training programs focused on team-building, communication skills, and stress management can significantly improve employee morale. Leadership training for managers on how to create a positive work environment is also beneficial.
Can flexible working hours contribute to employee happiness?
Absolutely. Flexible working hours allow employees to balance work and personal life better, leading to increased job satisfaction and reduced stress levels.
What role does workplace diversity play in employee satisfaction?
A diverse workplace fosters an inclusive environment where all employees feel valued and respected, contributing to higher job satisfaction and a positive company culture.
How important is career development in retaining employees?
Career development is crucial for retention. Employees are more likely to stay with a company that invests in their growth through training, promotion opportunities, and clear career pathways.
Can implementing health and wellness programs improve employee productivity?
Yes, health and wellness programs like gym memberships, mental health days, and wellness workshops can improve overall employee well-being, leading to increased productivity and reduced absenteeism.
What impact does corporate social responsibility (CSR) have on employee engagement?
Engaging in CSR activities can boost employee morale and loyalty as they feel part of a company that contributes positively to society and aligns with their personal values.
Final Thoughts
The most important thing when it comes to improving quality of work is to have your employees feel like a part of the team. Having a company where everyone wants to progress to a certain point is completely different from having a company where people just work their shifts. If the end results don’t matter to you enough, they won’t matter to them at all. So try to set an example and be a driving force for your employees as you all push towards a single goal.