Studies reveal that only about half of all U.S. employees experience job satisfaction. So what’s making the other half unhappy?
Exploring how to make employees happy is something every employer should prioritize. From finding good employees to job retention, happy employees make for a better workplace.
Keep reading for a complete guide on how to make employees happy.
Foster a Purpose-Driven Environment
Employees with a purpose engage more. They’re inspired in their work and seek out growth opportunities. They know their work is more than only a paycheck.
How do you foster a purpose-driven environment?
By allowing your employees the room to think for themselves. When you don’t have the answer, be open and honest. Ask for the team’s help and encourage creativity.
Give your employees opportunities to foster their unique strengths. Focus on these strengths. Acknowledging weaknesses is sometimes necessary, but don’t focus on them.
Give Work-Life Balance More Than Lip Service
Most people spend the bulk of their time at work.
But work is only one aspect of a person’s whole life. Create a positive work experience while acknowledging that work is not the only part of a person’s life.
Be flexible with employees dealing with family issues, such as a new baby. Sometimes an employee must be on-call 24/7. But for most people, it’s not necessary, so don’t expect it.
Positive Reinforcement
Everyone’s got a story about working for the “boss from hell.” That’s the boss that focuses on every mistake and never acknowledges the progress.
Don’t give false compliments. But do offer positive reinforcement whenever you can. Employees engage when they know the boss recognizes their good work.
Don’t Move the Goalpost
Define clear goals for the company and your employees. Write down the company goals and make sure you’re working toward them too. That’s what makes a great leader.
Help each employee set individual goals. Celebrate progress.
Provide Incentives
Can your company provide cash bonuses for holiday season? That’s a great incentive. And everyone loves a cash bonus. But a cash bonus is viewed as pay.
Studies reveal great enthusiasm among employees for non-cash rewards. Consider travel perks and other reward and recognition programs.
Relax the Dress Code
People dress to express their individuality. Harsh dress codes are oppressive. Oppressive company cultures don’t keep good employees.
Instead of strict dress codes, offer reasonable and appropriate guidelines. A relaxed dress code doesn’t mean it’s unprofessional. Let your employees be themselves—within reason, of course!
Now You Know How to Make Employees Happy!
It’s important to know how to make employees happy. Constant employee turnover is expensive. Satisfied employees build a good company foundation on which to grow.
Give your employees a purpose and encourage creative problem-solving. Give them space for a healthy work-life balance. Remember that everyone has a life outside of the job.
Set firm goals for both the company and individuals. Offer lots of positive reinforcement and incentives, both cash and non-cash. Make sure your dress code isn’t oppressive.
Happy employees are better employees!
Looking for more workplace advice? Take a look at our insights here.
