Work isn’t just a place for people to make money. On average we spend more than half of our waking lives in the workplace. This rather holds hostage the idea of a work-life balance. Does it really add up? Just because work isn’t a non-stop thrill ride doesn’t mean you aren’t gaining invaluable experiences and creating memories that shape the person you are becoming. Here, we look at the factors that influence our employee experience…
Values
Modernity in the workplace is important for attracting new blood and values should reflect this. Less the case of shaping the core ethos of the company just to attract some twenty-somethings, more: keeping one’s finger on the pulse. Preening and leaves as it were. Being aware of changing attitudes towards ethnic and sexual minorities for example, the way language and behaviour interlink, is always deeply important and it doesn’t hurt to make it known that these things are important to you and your company. Values are everything.
Recognition
This doesn’t necessarily have to mean a reward every time an employee does something well. No one as an adult should need to be bought dinner simply for doing their job but kind words cost nothing and verbal appreciation can often mean just as much. It is always nice to feel ‘seen’ as if the work you do isn’t going unnoticed and this tiny flicker of recognition can be the motivator that an employee needs to continue the work you are so impressed with.
Socials
Company culture is formed by its people and while the office can be a great place to connect, a more relaxed approach can often foster bonds that make people more productive simply because they are happier. Try observing different holidays on the calendar and celebrating them. Giving some routine and structure to the social calendar usually perks people up. Once people know they have things to look forward to, their work can improve and its almost always a laugh as well.
Performance Management
The key here is to make sure it’s continuous. Continuous doesn’t mean relentless, not everyone feels great about being taken aside for a daily review of their personal performance. However, checking in and making sure the employee knows where they stand in terms of their work is worth it as it is conducive to a higher quality of work. The aim isn’t to scare everyone with performance reviews but to fire them up for a challenge.
Wellness
This can slot into a few of the other subheadings because wellness is something that should be considered at all times. Employee mental health is of the utmost importance on a human level. Consider different activities for the neurodiverse workplace we now all work in like turning down the music and lights for those with autism for example. Regular breaks are also a necessity as it gives people a chance to recharge. Mindfulness of employee wellbeing can have an infinitely positive impact on their experience and performance.
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