Every boss aspires to create a happy and friendly workplace, giving workers a positive work life whilst keeping them motivated. Consequently, this encourages business growth as productivity is often linked with employee motivation. With this in mind, here are simple ways you can create a happy workplace:
Praise and Recognition
For many of us, we work to pay our bills and rent, or mortgage. However, we still desire a happy work life, with opportunities and prospects, working because we like to – not because we need to. That’s where praise and recognition come in. This can be through an email, acknowledging the good work your employees are doing, or even a handwritten note left on their desk. Little gestures like this can have an incredibly positive impact on your staff. Alternatively, you could give an award monthly to the “best employee”, where everyone can vote for who they think has gone above and beyond that month.
Work Benefits
Providing your employees with work benefit can be excellent way to create happy workplace. Many companies now offer work perks to their staff, this includes gym memberships, restaurant vouchers and transport to work paid for. For those who have a big commute, having the transport paid for is often a major factor when they are considering whether to take a job. By offering work perks, you are also giving employees another reason to stay with the company.
Positive Atmosphere
Creating a positive atmosphere is easy enough to achieve, though this is where most employers fail. Having an office or workspace with plenty of natural light can boost employee’s mood. In addition, having a radio or music playing is proven to aid productivity and happiness in the office environment. You should also decorate with positivity in mind, with plenty of greenery, bright furnishings and, where applicable, an open plan work space.
Resolve Disputes Quickly
The key to maintaining a happy workplace is to resolve disputes quickly and effectively. Most of the time disputes can be solved amongst the employees themselves, or with the help of a senior. However, for those cases where stronger disciplinary action is needed, you should consult an employment lawyer to ensure you’re taking the appropriate steps.
Encourage Teamwork
Creating a happy workplace can often be down to the positive team environment. It’s important to encourage collaboration within the workplace and conjure up a system where this can be done across departments if necessary. You should also organise team building activities, so the team feel comfortable with all members. Socialising outside of the workplace is equally as important, giving the team a chance to unwind and mingle outside of an official setting.
As an employer, there are many things you can be doing in order to create a happy workplace for your employees. Often, these are simple steps that can contribute to an overall positive work environment. Allowing people the freedom to have a good quality of life whilst maintaining productivity at work will ultimately help your business to thrive.
