1. Listen to employee feedback
Positive feedback cultures are becoming more popular in businesses to increase employee satisfaction. A professional feedback culture encourages open and honest communication between employees, managers and higher leadership.
A feedback culture involves a lot of listening to and acting on employee feedback and comments. This allows employees to provide their insight into management and organizational concerns and decisions.
While transitioning to this type of corporate culture takes time and effort, the effects of employee satisfaction surveys and other forms of employee feedback offer numerous benefits, including higher overall employee satisfaction and retention.
Note that simply seeking feedback isn’t enough to boost employee satisfaction — employees want to see their insights put into action. Employees will be more honest if empowered and feel they have direct influence on business operations. This creates a positive feedback loop and increases employee happiness.
2. Stop micromanaging
Micromanagement can negatively affect employee morale and productivity. It can also stifle creative thinking and discourage initiative.
Placing too much emphasis on the minutiae of daily operations can cause you to miss the bigger picture, and unfortunately can result in an increased risk of burnout for the manager.
Micromanagement is less effective, and causes greater stress to those involved.
Do you have any doubts about whether your team has been micromanaged or not? Check out our free template You can evaluate your leadership style.
3. Recognize and reward outstanding performance
Managers should make their employees feel valued and appreciated. They want to know that their work is fulfilling and contributes towards the development of the business.
You should not only consider the recognition, but also the type and amount that you give to your employees. Some people may feel uncomfortable with company-wide recognition and prefer smaller, more private acknowledgement. This recognition can come in the form of positive performance feedback and reinforcement or thoughtful perks like time off or discounted services.
4. Encourage a healthy way of life
Absenteeism can be caused by stress or health problems. A healthy office culture and programs that promote employee well-being can prevent burnout and fatigue.
You can promote mental and physical wellness in your employees by:
- Fitness classes
- Access to healthy foods
- Ergonomic office equipment
- Flexible work schedules
5. Maintain a pleasant workplace
Even seemingly small things can have an impact on employee happiness. Computers and servers which are slow can cause frustration. This will lead to a reduction in productivity. Inadequate workplaces can make employees uncomfortable or feel undervalued.
Numerous studies show that the workplace can have a dramatic impact on employee satisfaction. In addition to factors like lighting and temperature, even small decisions like allowing employees to leave personal items at their workstations can improve employee experience.
6. Communication and transparency
No one likes to be kept in the dark about decisions and changes made at work. Rumours about job instability, workplace changes or even a shift in corporate culture can affect employee morale.
Use internal communication tools to update employees on their current positions, new career opportunities, and major shifts. Even better, ask employees for their input on any possible changes. This simple gesture shows respect for your employees and encourages them into greater engagement with your organization.
7. Support employee development
Employees who leave their current jobs are most often motivated by career stagnation and lack growth. Managers can encourage their employees’ career development by offering workshops, training or expanding their scope.
Asking employees what they expect from their work and where do they see themselves in five years is a great way to start the discussion about professional development. Managers should discuss openly the opportunities for growth within the company. They should also assist employees in setting both short-term as well as longer-term goals to help them progress up the ladder.
The training has an additional benefit: it allows employees to try out their new skills, and increases productivity and performance.
8. Develop a social-cultural mindset
Remote working is an emerging reality that has left many employees feeling isolated and disconnected. Healthy work relationships can strengthen the team and reduce the risk for disengagement.
Social connections can improve job satisfaction and create a more positive environment. Employees may feel more confident about sharing their ideas and providing feedback, while friendly teams are more likely to seek collaborative solutions in challenging situations.
9. Your company’s mission statement should be a part of your daily life
People are generally looking for companies with a clear vision and mission. Employees who align their personal values with the company mission are more likely be satisfied at work as they feel like their work is meaningful.
10. Reduce ineffective operation
Ineffective or inefficient operations can be a major roadblock for motivating your employees. Employees can lose motivation if they spend too much time on administrative work or navigating processes.
Employee who waste their time might be worried about deadlines. They may even stop. Managers can improve employee satisfaction and productivity through streamlining operations and removing barriers.
11. Give employees more control over their roles
Employees who are able to tailor their tasks according to their strengths tend to excel in their roles. They will also be more proactive and produce higher quality work. Employees who are able to tailor their tasks according to their strengths will be more likely to excel at their jobs and to be proactive. They also produce better outcomes. Managers can use feedback sessions or performance reviews to evaluate an employee’s role and function and ensure that it still aligns with the greater needs of the business.