5 Tips for Keeping Employees Happy
In a song that will go unnamed, there is a phrase: "The grass is not always greener on the other side. It's green where you water it." This phrase sparked my inspiration for this month's newsletter - creating a happy work place and giving your employees what they need. There are much simpler, cheaper and more effective ways to keep your employees happy outside of bonuses and raises. Here are a few to get you started.
1. Offer room for growth
Employees are unlikely to be happy if they continue to come to a job that offers no room for growth and advancement. I don't mean the ability to promote from within but rather the ability to be challenged and learn. Think about it. You enjoy working on things that give you a sense of accomplishment and value. Look for projects or classes that you can assign or send your staff to that will help them grow.
2. Offer autonomy to workers
Allowing workers to perform tasks related to their jobs in their own way will not only make workers happier, it will also make them more productive. They will not have to waste time waiting for approval from superiors. Train them on what you expect but then give them the freedom to do their jobs.
3. Create a favorable office environment
Employees are happier if they like where they work. My first job out of college was a large employer here in town. I spent at least 60% of my time in meetings and felt so frustrated by this. The meetings never produced any results and I felt like more often than not they were a waste of time. Simple things such as reducing the length of meetings or playing music in the office can improve the morale of employees. Communication with employees also helps to alleviate many concerns they may have about their job since it helps workers feel happier and more secure at work. People like knowing what's going on.
4. Give workers balance in their lives
While balancing work life with home life may present a challenge for most workers, it presents an opportunity for companies trying to keep their employees happy. In fact, companies that offer employees a balance between their work and personal lives are more likely to keep employees happy in their current jobs. I offer some of my employees the chance to work from home so that they can be with their families, and I rarely say no to an employee's request to attend a family event, doctor's visit, etc. I set expectations and as long as those are being met, I look for ways to promote a better work/life balance.
5. Give small bonuses
If you are like Part-Time Pros, you don't have the ability yet to provide large bonuses or raises, but looking for small ways to show appreciation can be just as powerful. Sending flowers on birthdays and giving gift cards when a certain business goal or milestone is achieved can go a long way. Showing appreciation via smaller bonuses can be just as affective. Remember the old phrase: "It's the thought that counts." Rings true in business, too!
