In light of current economic activity, it is more important than ever for companies to have happy and productive employees. The satisfied clerical staff is crucial, especially for SMEs. When employees are devoted and care of the company, profits are higher. Conversely, when people feel that they have no specific incentive or undervalued, the company suffers. Furthermore, studies show that dedicated employees tend to absent from work less, perform better and be more supportive towards changes and willing to carry them out.
84% of employees support that dedication and motivation are the most important factors contributing to the success of a business, while revenue growth in businesses with dedicated employees, is 4 times greater. This is explained by the fact that happy employees are 31% more productive, more creative three times and with 37% higher sales. Features noted in surveys that happy employees enhance business productivity by 12% while the non-happy workers demonstrated 10% less productive. However, a large percentage of employees (68%) believes that the company does not contribute enough to creating a pleasant working environment.
However, financial incentives is not the only factor that contributes to the increase of worker productivity. In recent years, scientists and researchers point out that there is an inseparable link between happiness of employees and productivity / efficiency in the workplace. What employees seek at their workplace is constant and honest communication, access to leadership, recognition of their work and their offer, while the development of friendly relationships within the company increases their satisfaction over 50%. Already, many companies around the world, invest in supporting workers and increasing their satisfaction that relates to work. Indeed, companies that go into such investments almost immediately see the results, as confirmed by researches. For example, the human brain works much better when the person feels positive and cheerful. During this situation, people are more creative and tend to be more inventive in problem solving. Moreover, they are more cooperative and willing to work for a common goal (Revesencio, 2015).
Therefore, apart from the financial incentives, there are many other ways, which are relatively less expensive, that can positively contribute to creating joyful and dedicated employees, such as the following:
Be a “good” employer
A “good” employer is the one who sets clear expectations for employees, gives clear instructions for the work to be done (deadlines, procedures, etc.) and clearly defines the limits that demonstrate sound leadership and provide steady direction. This means that sets the rules, regulations, policies and procedures and provides a comprehensive manual for each employee.
Help your employees feel precious
You should encourage your employees and, praise them when they do a good job and let them know that you appreciate them. If an error is made, do not “punish” the employee. Instead, talk to the person, teach the proper procedures, and provide encouragement and further teaching when needed.
Create a productive atmosphere
The physical layout of the office is important for maximizing productivity. People need enough space to work, the right supplies / materials, and a comfortable and pleasant environment. Ensure that all equipment is designed ergonomically so that motivates positive employees, helping them to do their job. Simple ways of creating a pleasant and productive working environment is the presence of green plants, clean air using the air cleaning filter and the use of solar radiation (windows are very important). Other factors favoring the working climate is the presence of dogs in the company which reduces stress and increases productivity as well as music, which increases the efficiency of employees by 6%. Moreover, 60% of employees supports that provision of meals by the company, makes them feel more valuable and appreciated.
Let employees participate
Create a comprehensive employee handbook that is clearly and simply written. This should include the procedures for handling any imaginary scenario, including family emergencies. Ask employees for their ideas, to feel a sense of ownership in the company. In addition, help them to feel involved with regular meetings where everyone can express their views and concerns. This has an additional advantage for the company as you can obtain valuable information about products and underlying concerns that could hurt profitability. You could also establish special events for employees and their family. The strongest the feeling of “family” in the workplace be, the more efficient the workers will be (Lamar et Laney).
References : Visa Business (2013), Johna Revesencio (2015), Lamar et Laney, www.dkconsultants.gr