While conventional wisdom says that customers are the most essential aspect of any business, it could be said that your employees are truly the most important. They are the single greatest asset to growing a business. That’s why keeping employees happy must be on the mind of every business leader. A happy employee means increased productivity and, ultimately, higher profits. Here are some secrets to keeping your staff happy and motivated.
Stick to Your Word
Many managers say one thing to employees only to do something entirely different. To keep your employees happy, you have to be a person of your word. For instance, if you promise them breaks and extra holidays, make sure you deliver. If, for any reason, there needs to be a change, make sure you communicate those changes effectively.
Another area where companies need to stay true to their words is in the area of finance. Pay employees on time and accurately – everyone should get what they are owed, and on time. The best way to get that done is to use payroll software like CheckMark to automate your processes and eliminate human error.
Recognize and Reward Employees
Nothing hurts like working extra hard or coming up with innovation and not getting recognition for it. For this reason, many companies have set up weekly, monthly, and annual reward schemes to celebrate the efforts of their staff. You should do the same. Here are some ideas to help you appreciate your team:
- Celebrate their birthdays.
- Create profiles for employees on your website.
- Celebrate successes and milestones publicly. You can use signage or post on social media.
- Create a Wall of Fame.
- Have a company party and awards night at the end of each year.
- Organize a staff appreciation day.
- Send thank you notes.
- Encourage peer-to-peer recognition.
Be Concerned About Their Well-Being
Although you employ people to perform specific functions, always remember that they are humans and not robots or automatons. So, provide a work-life balance that allows them to take breaks and rest. Be intentional about creating a culture that makes employees concerned about the well-being of their colleagues as well.
Additionally, take an interest in their progress and career goals. Are there any courses they can take to improve their skills and knowledge base? Are there any opportunities that you can connect them to? Sign your team members up for conferences and training opportunities whenever possible.
Create Opportunities
When people join an organization, they are often looking for opportunities to rise and climb the corporate ladder. Any organization that provides an exact route to the top is bound to be a favorite among workers. For instance, someone who starts at the lowest rung of the ladder should be able to rise through the ranks to become a manager or even the CEO through sheer hard work and dedication.
Some companies run the famous Boss for a Day concept. Periodically, an employee is given the opportunity to lead the team, for just one day. While they may not make any significant decisions, they can sit in high-level meetings and contribute to discussions. This experience often spurs on staff and makes them feel like anyone can rise to the top.
Look Beyond Profits
Of course, most companies are driven by profits, but many people prefer to work with purpose-driven companies. That’s why companies like TOMS and Starbucks are a favorite among the working class because they are involved in the community and are intentional about making society better. Find a problem within your community and come up with creative and innovative ideas to solve that problem. Create opportunities for employees to contribute and volunteer as well.
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