It may sound cliché, but a happy workplace is a productive workplace. It comes as no surprise that employees who enjoy their jobs will work harder, ultimately impacting a business where it matters most — the bottom line.
Of course, one of the best ways to boost morale is to provide financial compensation. However, for many companies operating in today's competitive business climate, that's not possible. Rest assured, however, there are some easy ways to give your employees a lift without significantly lifting your expenses:
- Celebrate accomplishments. Everyone likes to be recognized for working hard and doing a good job. Take a moment to praise employees who have achieved success at work. You can announce successes at your staff meeting or in the company newsletter. You can also recognize employees for accomplishments in their personal lives as well.
- Express thanks. In addition to praising employees, it's important to take the time to thank them for their hard work.
- Provide a clear career path. Most employees are looking to get ahead to increase their skills and pay. If possible, try to provide employees with a clear path to advancement and to offer coaching to help them develop the knowledge and skills they need to advance.
- Open communication. Encourage your employees to share ideas and suggestions on how to help the company succeed.
- Offer rewards. If possible, reward your employees with time off. Giving a hard-working employee an afternoon off for a long weekend or a child's soccer game can go a long way in making them happy.
- Share the big picture. Make sure employees understand the contribution they make to the ultimate success of the company. This will give them a higher purpose.
- Support and encourage community involvement. Providing the opportunity for employees to participate in community service projects is another way to boost morale. For example, you could give employees time off to volunteer at a food pantry or homeless shelter.
- Make time for fun. Think about forming a company softball team or bowling league, or hosting pizza parties or other events that bring people together in a more relaxed environment.
Bottom line, taking these steps to increase employee morale is good for employees, and good for your business.