Five ways to Reduce Employee Stress and Maximize Performance.
1. Provide an attractive and comfortable work environment whenever possible. Pleasant surroundings can do more for a person's attitude than we often realize. Create a less formal atmosphere by adding plants or improved decorations. It will even help if it is just in the restroom.
2. Supply a quiet employee break room. Not the canteen or games room, this room should be separate from the normal "hustle and bustle" of the workplace. It will give your employees an opportunity for a quick 10 minute break from work and any work related stress that they may be experiencing.
3. Instead of giving orders 100% of the time, try to create opportunities for employees to make decisions that will directly affect their job performance. This gives them a sense of personal power and less stress because they feel they have some control.
4. Thank your employees for work accomplished
and recognize them for exemplary performance. A quick thank you will go a long way in reducing complaints and stress. Be genuine and only thank workers when they have worked well; otherwise you will be rewarding sub-standard activities.
5. Always choose ergonomically sound equipment, tools, and furniture. These will make work easier for your staff, reduce workplace injuries, and therefore limit compensation claims. In addition, workplace stress will be reduced and staff, equipped with the correct tools, will be more productive.