There are many benefits to running a happy workplace. For example, it will help you with employee retention (which is particularly important in the face of the great resignation). Furthemore, studies suggest that when we are happy, we work harder, meaning that productivity and efficiency levels will also soar. Finally, customers are more likely to support brands that take care of their employees.
As a result, you must make a real effort to lead a happy workplace. Here are some top tips to get you started!
- Recognize employee potential. The first step toward creating a happy workplace is being able to recognize potential in employees and supporting them as they work towards both their personal and professional goals. For example, you should be able to identify the difference between skills and talent so that you can identify which areas your staff need to work on to reach their full potential. Then, you can pay for the cost of training programs that will help them advance.
- Upgrade your work environment. Various different factors impact our happiness at work, and our office spaces play a significant role in this. While the easiest way to combat this issue would be to remove clutter (as this increases stress), but you should also find fun and creative ways to redecorate or design your office in a way that allows productivity to thrive. You can find plenty of design ideas and inspiration on the Office Furniture Company Blog.
- Take good care of your employees. If you want your employees to feel happy, you must make sure that you take good care of them – which means paying close attention to both their mental and physical wellbeing. For example, you should ensure that you have a good workplace safety plan in place. However, you should also ensure you make it clear that your employees can approach you with any concerns they may have.
- Promote collaboration over competition. To ensure your employees work together efficiently, it’s vital that you promote friendly collaboration between your team instead of encouraging them to compete against each other. While a little competition here and there can heighten productivity, it also breeds toxicity as they begin to view their colleagues as a competitor and not a teammate. Remember, your staff are working towards the same goals – meaning that you should encourage them to work together.
- Speak to your employees. We’re happiest when our needs are met – meaning one of the easiest ways for you to start leading a happy workplace is to get to know what your employees want. Ask them for feedback about how they feel about the workplace, and make changes based on these responses. If you feel as though your employees are nervous about coming forward with suggestions, make this feedback anonymous. Don’t respond negatively to any comments, even if you feel they are harsh – instead, work towards an amicable conclusion. Taking their opinions wants, and needs on board proves that you are the kind of company they’ll want to continue working for.
