Wondering how to keep your staff motivated, energetic, and productive until the brighter days of Spring? Winter time can present some challenges for keeping employees engaged and in a positive state of mind – especially with the holidays behind us and the cold season in full swing. To help you and your staff combat those winter blues, here are some practical tips to help boost the mood, morale, and productivity levels of your staff.
Recognize Good Work
Sometimes, it’s the small gestures that can really make the biggest difference. Recognizing good work with a simple handshake, or sharing a great idea presented by a staff member can help build up a culture of appreciation and support amongst your team. Simple gestures such as this can be extremely effective at boosting the morale and mood of your employees, as well as the culture of the organization
Make the Workplace More Enjoyable
Investing in your staff is important for any business to succeed. When your staff is a happy bunch, they’re more focused and productive as a whole. So, making an effort to create a more enjoyable and comfortable work environment is necessary. Simple adjustments can also go a long way. For example, switching up the lighting from harsh fluorescent bulbs to warmer, “sunnier” hues can cut down on the glare and help minimize the onset of Seasonal Affective Disorder.
Also, take a look at your employee’s workstations. What minor adjustments could help improve these areas? Maybe an adjustable chair to ease back pain, or an ergonomic mouse to help support their wrists? Even monitoring the temperature of the office to ensure it’s at a favourable level is important. Talk to your staff and learn what sort of issues can be improved upon that could help increase the comfort level at work – it will always benefit you in the present and in the long run.
Recognize Special Events
Building up a supportive workplace is one of the best ways to keep employees motivated and excited to come to work. Fostering a sense of community and friendship among the team can easily be achieved by making a point to recognize any special events, such as birthdays, anniversaries, promotions, accomplishments, and more. Taking the time to buy a cake or head for some celebratory drinks after work is an easy and simple way to build up that sense of community among your staff.
Remember, your staff is what makes or breaks your business. Keeping them happy, comfortable and motivated to work hard is imperative. Keep your staff moving until spring with these simple, effective tips.
