The ripple effect of having happy employees
Hubtel IT shares insights into why it pays to foster a happy workplace, not just for your employees but for your customers too.
Mental health and wellbeing have become an important topic in recent years, and it’s thanks to public figures willing to talk openly about their own mental health that it’s become less of a taboo subject.
The WHO defines mental health as “a state of mental well-being that enables people to cope with the stresses of life, realise their abilities, learn well and work well, and contribute to their community. It has intrinsic and instrumental value and is integral to our well-being.”
It’s therefore not surprising that an Oxford University study found that happy employees are 13% more productive, but what can employers do to strike the right balance to foster a happy workplace and create a ripple effect?
Ask them!
Do you actually know how happy your employees are? Happiness surveys are a good way to get some feedback, find out what motivates them at work and iron out any pain points that they may not otherwise mention. Tip: be prepared to act, don’t just conduct a survey by way of lip service.
Recognise effort
When someone, or the collective team, has gone above and beyond let them know you’ve seen and appreciate it. In this instance actions speak louder than words, yet gestures don’t have to be big. Tip: a lunch delivery goes down well and provides social time for staff to unwind together.
Celebrate together – the big and the small
Take the time to celebrate the big and the small wins when you can. If someone has hit a milestone at work, celebrate it. Similarly, if someone has completed an arduous project or received positive feedback from a customer, share the good news story among your colleagues. Tip: sometimes it’s the little things that matter, particularly those that normally go unseen.
Regular one-to-ones
Giving your employees the opportunity to be heard is important. Regular one-to-ones pave the way for growth and productivity and are a two-way street. Tip: schedule these in for the year and make them a priority.
Review your package
Knowing that your package is competitive will ensure that the basic needs of your employees are being met. Salaries should align with market values, and job boards, recruiters and networking will help you understand what’s right for your employees based on their experience and skills set. Annual leave entitlement should also be up-to-date, and extras such as health insurance are a great way to show your employees that you care beyond the office door. Tip: health insurance comes with a range of perks for employees to enjoy providing additional work perks.
So, beyond the 13 per cent rise in productivity what’s the ripple effect of being happy at work?
The Oxford University study found that happy workers do not work more hours than their discontented colleagues, they are simply more productive within their time at work.
They are therefore more likely to deliver on your company values and provide exceptional customer service. The ripple effect can be seen in your growing business, with customers remaining loyal through the good times and the bad, recommending you to other businesses and happy to spend money with you.
And, from an employment perspective, HR issues are more likely to be dealt with effectively. Sick leave and churn shouldn’t be an issue and you’re more likely to attract high calibre staff if you have a reputation for being a great place to work.
People do business with people – it’s in your interest to make sure your people are happy.
