Any good leader wants to see their team succeed. Not only is this beneficial for the company, but it helps to keep employees happy as well. Keeping employees happy on a daily basis can bring out the best in them and also improve how they feel about their job and their work environment. All in all, happy and engaged employees result in a thriving workplace. A truly thriving workplace can increase productivity, job satisfaction, retention, and employee morale. Here are a few tips for creating an engaging and thriving workplace.
Create a Positive Work Environment
People want to come to work in a place that is friendly and welcoming. They also want to feel valued for what they do and know that they are working towards something more. Therefore, strive to provide your employees with a friendly atmosphere, a decent salary, the right tools and support, and some goals to work towards. Each day, find ways to let your employees know you appreciate them and are grateful for their efforts. A positive work environment sets the foundation for a thriving workplace.
Get to Know Your Team Better
Treat your employees as people and not just numbers. This means taking the time to get to know each and every team member. Get to know their skills, strengths, goals, and personalities. Make sure any new team members are given a good introduction when they start so other team members can get to know them as well. Have regular one-on-one meetings with members of your team to provide feedback and offer support where needed. Make yourself personally available to them to talk and encourage them to come to you with any questions or concerns.
Lead by Example and Promote Healthy Work Habits
Be mindful of employee mental health and take steps to avoid burnout. Start by creating time in each workday for your own exercise or other activities that can reduce stress. Then, encourage your employees to do the same. Take time off here and there to recharge and use your vacation time. Stay home when you are sick, and let employees know how important it is to take care of themselves when they aren’t feeling well. Avoid working excessive hours and don’t expect that of your employees. Encourage them to take time off for family obligations and be empathetic to their personal needs.
Provide Your Team with Tools and Information to do Their Jobs
Make your employees feel engaged in their jobs by providing them with all of the tools, information, training, and support they need to perform their job well. Make sure everyone is aware of their specific responsibilities and work to ensure everyone’s roles are well-matched with their skills.
Reflect on Your Management Style
It is commonly said that people quit managers, not jobs. Therefore, if you want to have a thriving workplace, you need to reflect on yourself as a manager. Do you trust your team to complete tasks on their own without micromanaging them? Are you fair, open, and consistent? Do you make yourself available to speak with employees about their feelings, concerns, or ideas? Do you promote an inclusive environment? Do you handle conflicts when they arise? Do you recognize and acknowledge the efforts of your employees? Do you support your team through challenges? Assess your management style and remember that as a manager, you set the tone for your team.