Engaged and happy employees are more productive employees. And when your workforce performs at optimal levels, they will be the most valuable asset at your disposal. Conversely, without the right people on your side, the whole venture can lose momentum. As an employer, getting this aspect right is the biggest challenge you'll face. Is your workplace doing enough to keep employees happy, especially after lockdown?
If your company isn't doing enough to promote the best possible workplace setup, it must do better. Ask yourself the following questions for guidance and you won't go far wrong.
Do employees feel safe and secure?
First and foremost, all workers should feel safe. When they don't it can cause major damage to the productivity levels. Therefore, ensuring that you have the right CCTV, security, teams, and cybersecurity systems in place is vital. All workspaces need to be equipped with fire extinguishers. Any other items that may be needed, like electrical safety hooks.
All safety equipment, such as harnesses or goggles, should be regularly tested. Aside from gaining better results for the workforce, it protects the future of the company. No business owner wants to be faced with the fallout of a preventable accident.
Do employees feel comfortable around each other?
Smooth communication sits at the heart of every great business. It is arguably even more important in the post-pandemic era due to the lack of face-to-face interactions in recent times. Investing in staff training and team away days can be very beneficial. Meanwhile, using tech tools ranging from team messaging apps to project management tools is advised.
As a boss, you must be responsive to the signs that animosity or workplace bullying has surfaced. Furthermore, you must ensure that the employer-employee relationship is maintained. Otherwise, staff engagement levels can fall.
Do employees have the tools needed to thrive?
It's not only a bad worker who blames their tools. At least not if the facilities are below par. Investing in the latest advanced tech is great, but you also need to make practical decisions. When buying a roll container, for example, the right size is as important as reliability. When looking at introducing forklifts or machinery, you need people who can operate them too.
Automation can be implemented to ensure that stock levels and even some aspects of manufacturing are under control. Office staff will need the right computer software while shop floor workers may require mobile POS terminals. Ask your staff for advice.
Do employees feel they are progressing?
It's one thing to create a great situation for the current setup. However, you also need to respect the human elements influencing your team. Most workers have aspirations of climbing the career ladder. When recruiting senior employees, you may wish to consider internal promotions. Aside from the direct beneficiary, it provides inspiration for others.
This approach means senior staff have an understanding of junior roles. In turn, your new junior employees should be able to express themselves with ease and will feel more engaged. The harmony of your workplace will soar.