Running a business? Perhaps morale within your team is low. Or perhaps it’s sailing along normally, but you are aware that improvements could be made. Or maybe it is excellent and you want to keep it that way. Whichever scenario applies to you and your business, here are four things you can do for a happier and more productive workforce.
Give them opportunities to socialize with their colleagues
Far more people like to mix and mingle with their colleagues than those who like to keep to themselves. Plus, it could be that the ones who do like to keep to themselves only feel that way because they lack confidence and the impetus to reach out. You’ll create a happier workforce if you provide your staff with opportunities to socialise. Organize a team building day out of the office. Create incentives for staff weekends away. Gather everyone at a local bar on Friday night per week and hand out a free drinks voucher for everyone.
Provide them with top quality tools and software
Some businesses thrive best if staff have lots of great ideas. Others thrive if customers are kept happy. However, others thrive if the tools and software being used are effective and efficient. Your staff will be far happier if they are using top quality tools during their day. It will make their lives easier, and it will make their output better. Take jet band saws. The tool itself is pretty standard, but the respected name behind it gives you reassurance. A reassurance that your staff will be safe, and that the tool itself will work correctly. Software can also be utilized to keep operations running smoothly. Providing an innovative software solution for managing projects will help your employees stay on top of tasks and work together with strong communication and accountability.
Offer more flexible hours
This is one of the best ways to keep hold of Millennials and parents. The world is changing, and thank to computers and tech 9 am to 6 pm are no longer the only viable working hours. Consider whether your company could allow some staff to take off a weekday and work one day of the weekend instead.
Being more flexible with your working hours is a fantastic way to demonstrate to your staff that you are considerate. It shows that you care about them, their lives and their personal preferences. In turn, they will care more about their work and your business also.
Create a more pleasant working environment
Nobody wants to work in a place that is noisy, dirty, uncomfortable or unpleasant. You will boost staff moral hugely if you improve their working environment. Do a survey of your staff. Do they have enough access to light during the day? Do they feel like the office cleaners clean their desks sufficiently? Do they have enough space to complete their daily tasks sufficiently? If the answer to any of these questions is no, you must make a change. It will take time, and it will also cost money, but the outcome will be worth it. Make your staff comfortable. Choose office furniture that is supportive for their body and posture, but also attractive. Have a reshuffle so that you are making the best use of space. There are lots of little things you can do that will all add up to make a big difference.