From time to time, it is normal for employee morale to take a plunge. Whether it is a stressful time at work or a major workplace change is occurring, employees may respond unfavourably.
However, if employee morale is low over substantial periods of time, it may point to problems with management and the overall culture of the business. Low morale can have devastating impacts on business too; low levels of employee satisfaction and productivity, and high rates of turnover.
Here are three ways to boost employee morale:
Celebrate accomplishments
Show your staff you care about the work they do by celebrating accomplishments and milestones. Whether it is a good result on a project, meeting a challenging deadline or contributing a useful idea – it should be celebrated. This creates a culture where praise is normal and encourages colleagues to follow suit.
Incorporate fun into their work day
Morale can be greatly determined by an employee’s work environment. Encourage team-bonding by organising team activities such as bowling, go-karting, lawn bowls, etc., during work hours. Start up lunchtime activities, such as a running group or touch football in a nearby park. Celebrate staff member’s birthdays with cake and morning tea or go out for lunch. Although these may sound like obvious tips, they can be easy to forget during stressful times.
Encourage employees to speak up
Communication plays a big factor in employee morale. Implement an open-door policy, if you haven’t already done so. When staff know they can approach you with any question, concern or even idea they have, they are more likely to respect you and enjoy coming to work.
