Businesses aren’t easy to run. At EON, we take care of the details so that you can focus on the bigger picture, though sometimes it is hidden by the stresses of the job. Here are five ways to uncover the big picture and create a happy and healthy workplace.
Create a Community
Work should be about more than just, well, work. Employees spend a significant amount of time in the office, and if that office isn’t welcoming they will be less likely to stay. Whether you decide to have an office fantasy football league or a recreation area where employees can get to know each other, it is important to build a sense of belonging. You could create a summer kickball team, for instance, or have a staff retreat. Whatever you decide, giving employees the opportunity to connect with each other and the company will create the ideal environment.
Focus on Wellness
We already know that living a healthy, active lifestyle makes people happier, but how does that translate to the office? Sitting at a desk all day isn’t good for your employees or your business. Studies have shown again and again that workplaces where wellness is a focus see increases in employee satisfaction and productivity, and a decrease in absenteeism. Consider scheduling a monthly healthy potluck, having a company-wide Fitbit challenge, or bringing in outside instructors to teach a yoga class once a week. Perhaps you can provide a discount to a local gym or offer bike storage for employees who prefer to cycle to work. Whichever way you go, the benefits are not just limited to the workplace. Employees will be more dedicated to themselves and their work, making wellness a sound investment for your company.
Give Back
Working with charities and nonprofit organizations is a great way to boost morale in the office, and there are so many different ways to get involved. Some companies donate a percentage of their time each year to charity work; others hold fundraisers or food drives in the office. Beyond that, some companies embrace corporate social responsibility and have a business-wide initiative that employees decide upon. Take a vote! Perhaps folks will want to get involved with an animal rescue or fundraising for school supplies. Giving employees the voice to determine how to give back increases both their involvement and their happiness
Encourage Growth
No one wants to feel stuck in their job. If an employee feels like he or she has nowhere to grow, they are likely to seek work elsewhere. Retaining your workforce means you have to invest in their growth and interests. Offering educational assistance is a great way to create a happier and healthier workplace; investing in your employees’ education is investing in your own company. Helping employees explore their passions outside of the office has its benefits, too. Companies that offer unlimited vacation time see higher retention rates, and employees usually end up taking less time off.
Make Work Fulfilling
How does your company impact the community and businesses around you? Employees want to know that their work matters and that they’re important. If they feel they’re doing something meaningful, they will be more engaged. Determine what your true purpose is, and make sure your employees know how their job contributes to this goal. This keeps them invested, and gives your business more opportunities for growth.
There are a myriad of ways to bring some joy to your office. Some involve small changes, like a new coffee maker with the latest bells and whistles; some involve larger modifications, like re-designing for a more collaborative workspace. EON Office helps with the practicalities of running a business so you can focus on creating a better, happier workplace. Contact us today.
