Happy employees are productive employees. As an employer, you should be concerned about both the efficiency of your workers and their overall well-being, and fortunately, the two are innately tied together.
This means that by ensuring your staff is happy and comfortable at work, you’ll be indirectly boosting their productivity and improving your own business. A win-win, yes? So, here are a few simple ways you can put a smile on your employee’s faces and improve the dynamic of your team.
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Create a Fun and Comfortable Break Area
Having a designated space for your team to sit back and take a breather during their workday is more essential than you might think. Sure, they can take their break at their desk, but that isn’t really offering them the space they need away from their screens and their looming tasks.
A little space set aside for your team with comfortable breakroom chairs and a coffee station will make a huge impact on their day. It will be a space for them to step away from their frustrations and have a laugh with a co-worker for ten minutes – much needed during a chaotic workweek!
Prioritize Work-Life Balance
Bigger breaks are just as important as those little ones throughout the workday. This means that reasonable work hours, free weekends, and annual PTO are essential for your staff to be able to recoup.
Make sure you emphasize the importance of resting and show your staff that you value their time off as much as they do. Encourage them to take time off, offer flexible hours for those who might need them, and consider a hybrid work model to allow your staff more time at home with their families.
Encourage Team Building Activities
Most people will roll their eyes at the concept of team building, but when done right, they can really contribute to an overall better team dynamic and a happier group of people.
Instead of the typical obstacle course or rope-climbing shindig, think about activities that your employees will actually enjoy doing together. Staff lunches (where you don’t talk about work), playing some board games, and staff sports days are some ideas that will actually get people excited to participate. While the concept might be cheesy, the benefits of having a solid team are undeniable.
Provide Growth Opportunities
Finally, show your team that you value them beyond what they can do for your company right now and invest in their careers in the long term. Not only will this pay off for your business through their enhanced skills and knowledge, but it’ll show your employees that they’re worth something to you.
Whether you offer funding for further education, send your staff on training courses, or offer mentorship opportunities, any form of career and professional advancement will benefit both them and your business. Employees who feel valued and appreciated are far more likely to work hard and stay loyal, so your efforts and investment will pay off.
