Most employers want to ensure that their employees are productive and professional. But should you also worry if they are happy at work? Of course, you should.
A happy worker is more likely to be creative and also productive. An employer can be sure that a happy worker will be a public defender of the company.
But what makes people love their jobs, and how can you create those happy conditions for your employees?
Promote Transparency
One of the biggest problems workers face is a lack of understanding of how their work fits into the bigger picture. Sometimes, this can lead to a feeling of not being appreciated or motivated.
To combat this, you must create a culture of transparency so that all your employees understand the company’s goals, plans, and challenges. It will not only make them feel like they are an essential part of the team, but it will also allow them to get ideas and input from people who otherwise might not have felt empowered to speak.
When you create transparency, you can harness all the intelligence of the team, move faster and smarter, and achieve much more as a team.
Develop Your Management Skills
Good managers bring out the best in employees, while bad managers make them feel unmotivated and unappreciated.
The three most valued qualities in a manager are:
- Leadership
- Honesty
- Ability to delegate
Instead of promoting managers and expecting them to learn leadership skills on the job, take the time to ensure they have the right skills for the job. Reserve face-to-face or online training resources to help your senior staff learn to delegate, motivate, and communicate effectively with other workers.
As an entrepreneur, you are responsible for creating your company’s culture. Make it clear to your employees that you value how they manage teams.
Show Your Appreciation
Feeling a sense of recognition for their work and contributions is one of the most important requirements for employees to be happy at work. Not feeling appreciated directly affects motivation and productivity. Employees should be recognized for each of their contributions to the company.
Showing appreciation doesn’t have to come with fanfare or benefits. Whether orally, in writing, or the form of cash, showing appreciation for employees’ work increases their satisfaction and makes them feel like a valued part of the company.
Let Employees Do Work They Are Passionate About
Another factor contributing to your employees being happy is working in an area or industry they are passionate about. It has more value in creating happiness for employees than salary.
If your company is purpose-driven in its mission, chances are it’s already attracting workers who are doing work they’re passionate about.
Consider donating a portion of the proceeds to charity. If your employees see tangible proof that their boss is contributing to a worthwhile cause, they’re more likely to feel positive about their work.
Passion for your work can also mean doing work that you find compelling and rewarding. Give your workers a chance to take on new challenges, and encourage them to talk to their managers about their career goals and interests. Employees who are invested in their jobs are happier and more motivated.
Have Paths For Professional Growth
The main factor contributing to workers’ happiness is the ability and opportunity to learn, develop and grow.
No one wants to be trapped in their job position, so having the opportunity to advance is key to promoting employees’ happiness. Be sure to also recognize their accomplishments by empowering them to solve new challenges, learn new skills, and take on new responsibilities.