Is there such a thing as an ideal workplace? Well, research suggests that there is a positive correlation between employee happiness and the success of companies and small businesses.
Even more, research has shown that employees who experience high levels of satisfaction tend to be more motivated, productive, and creative, often going above and beyond in their work.
There is a strong correlation between job satisfaction and employee retention rates, with a 48.4 percent increase in employee loyalty when workers are happier. This in turn helps to prevent costly turnover. However, employees who have a negative experience at work result in significant financial losses for U.S. businesses, amounting to $300 billion annually in sick leave, absences, and errors.
A happy workplace is the result of intentional efforts and changes, both tangible and intangible, that contribute to a more harmonious environment.
Here are 15 things you can do immediately to create a better office environment:
1. Implement natural lighting into the work environment
In addition to its aesthetic appeal, natural lighting in the workplace has been found to have a significant impact on employees’ sleep quality energy levels, and professional development. A study conducted by neurology researchers at Northwestern University revealed that individuals working in offices with windows receive a substantial 173 percent increase in white light exposure during work hours, resulting in an additional 46 minutes of sleep per night. As a result, workers experience improved restfulness and a more positive mindset.
2. Establish a clean and comfortable office environment
When you are in an attractive, comfortable, and pleasant area, you tend to feel better. This applies to both the home and work environment, so it’s important to remove clutter and fix any broken equipment, as well as resolve issues with flickering lightbulbs and faulty air conditioning or heating units. Additionally, investing in new ergonomic furniture, plants, updated equipment, and quality coffee and snacks can have a positive impact. Not only will your staff feel valued and cared for, but the positive energy of the space will uplift and energize them and employee performance will rise.
3. Offer designated rooms for employees to have a quiet workspace
Open office layouts are commonly used, but it is important to provide designated areas for employees as well as the entire team to work quietly when needed. This can help reduce stress, and offer better mental health and interruptions, ultimately improving mood and productivity. Some companies, like Google, offer nap rooms for their employees. Research has indicated that a short power nap of 20 to 30 minutes is more effective than consuming coffee in increasing energy levels for individuals who consistently work long hours, engage in intensive and complex tasks, or travel to remote locations.
4. Implement an open-door policy for all team members
Creating a workplace where employees feel heard and valued is crucial for their happiness and commitment and overall team productivity. Transparency is the key to avoiding conflicts that arise from employees feeling excluded or treated as mere pawns. Let your team know that you’re always there to answer questions, aid in team-building activities, help with common goals, hear their thoughts, and address any concerns they might have. Remember, when we say “open door” we mean it! Don’t just keep the door physically open, but also keep the lines of communication wide open. Let the friendly vibes flow in a positive work environment!
5. Provide the office with areas for recreational use by employees
If possible, consider providing space for outdoor basketball hoops or an indoor ping pong table for a nice work-life balance. This will allow team members to engage in physical activity or relieve stress during breaks in a better physical environment. Additionally, engaging in friendly games with others can result in improved rapport and team cohesion.
6. Unique benefits for employees
Multiple companies, including Netflix, are currently exploring innovative perks such as unlimited vacation time. Are you concerned about the high levels of absenteeism? Studies indicate that individuals with unlimited time off tend to spend more days at work than those with structured paid time off. The concept is similar in that it suggests that individuals are more inclined toward making a greater effort when they are accountable for defining their value system. In the workplace, the emphasis should be on task completion rather than the time it takes to complete it.
7. Provide tuition reimbursement for workers
Many well-known companies, such as Starbucks, Apple, Bank of America, and Best Buy, offer tuition reimbursement to their employees. This is seen as a valuable benefit for job seekers and is also considered a sound investment in the education and skill development of current employees, which ultimately contributes to the success of the company.
8. Offer weekly employee lunches
Every Friday, treat the entire office to a mouthwatering feast and create a scrumptious bonding experience that’ll make teamwork even sweeter! Whether you’re dining al fresco or gathering in the conference room, this perk will not only make your employees grateful but also foster an incredible sense of camaraderie. Putting out a monthly company newsletter also keeps employees informed.
9. Let people personalize their workstations
Employees are encouraged to personalize their workstations with items that they find appealing and comfortable, such as standing or adjustable desks, office chairs or stability balls, and ergonomic keyboards and mice. They have the freedom to decorate their cubicles or offices with personal photographs, plants, and desk lamps. Customizing our space enhances a sense of pride, which in turn positively impacts our work.
10. Start wellness programs
It may be beneficial to introduce innovative and enjoyable initiatives to enhance overall happiness and well-being. As an example, a monthly prize could be awarded to the person who logs the highest number of miles walked around the office, with personal pedometers provided. Additionally, weekly provision of fresh fruit can help curb hunger with healthy snacks. Other possibilities include organizing a designated “bring your child to work” day or offering on-site, complimentary childcare services during the week.
11. Utilize inclusive language to foster employee engagement
When guiding your staff, the language you choose has a significant impact on their perception and their role in the work. Instead of commanding them with phrases like “You must do this,” why not foster a sense of appreciation and collaboration by suggesting “Why don’t we try this?” Create an environment where no one feels like they are toiling under a tyrant.
12. Limit meetings, and improve communication
Meetings are a major productivity killer. People go to an average of 61.8 meetings per month, most meetings don’t have an agenda, and the majority of people multitask during them. To avoid this, use alternatives like email or a centralized whiteboard for communication.
13. Plan fun activities for a healthy work culture
Spice up your work routine! Add some excitement to the office and watch the happiness and relaxation soar. Imagine celebrating every employee’s birthday with cake and an unforgettable rendition of “Happy Birthday,” having a fun-filled evening out for drinks at the company once a month, or even organizing epic softball tournaments. When work comes with fantastic rewards, going to the office becomes a blissful experience.
14. Avoid burdening your employees
Consider the workload capacity of each employee realistically. Having too much work can lead to burnout, which is a major reason why people quit their jobs. Did you know that productivity takes a nosedive when someone works over 50 hours? However, if you have to pile on more work, make sure to show your employees how much you appreciate them by giving them a well-deserved raise or promotion. An out-of-the-box solution to the never-ending workload conundrum: why not expand our passionate team with fresh faces? Investing a little more upfront will unlock a world of long-term success, with heightened retention rates and sky-high productivity levels.
15. Allow staff to set their hours for better productivity
Get ready to break free from the conventional nine-to-five work week. The outdated 8-hour workday that we all know is a fairly recent invention, sprung to life in 1914 by mastermind Henry Ford himself. Not only did he slash his employees’ grueling 14-hour shifts, but he also doubled their sweet, sweet paychecks! And you know what? It worked like magic, boosting profits to new heights. So why settle for the mundane when you can embrace a schedule that works for you? Say goodbye to the Monday blues and hello to a revolution in productivity! Unlock your full potential by starting your day later. Discover the productivity secret of night owls and unleash your true work performance. Some people have loving families to attend to and prefer cramming in extra hours in just a few days. Empower your team and unleash their productivity by granting them the freedom to select their work hours! Unleash the power of inspiration and unlock the secrets to efficient work and time-saving.
Your Approach
Each company has its unique attributes, and finding the right approach to workplace harmony varies from one organization to another. By creating a positive office environment, employee satisfaction, and overall business success can be improved through increased commitment, longer retention, and higher productivity.
Call the Experts
If your recruitment efforts are not bearing fruit, and/or you need help with hiring employees, contact Search Masters for assistance. Our team of professionals can help you find the ideal personnel to empower your business.
Search Masters utilizes numerous online resources and tools to help you find the perfect people for your business.
Search Masters can assist you with creating job postings that could appeal to competent applicants and offer advice on assessing resumes and applications to find the ideal candidate for your business.
In addition, our assistance on interviewing skills, salary discussion tactics, and more is only a phone call away.