A happier, more productive workplace or office is good for everyone's soul. The boss is satisfied because profits are up; fewer workers are leaving for other jobs, which means saving in training new employees; and some employees gladly take on more responsibilities, which lowers the need for more workers. And, customers are getting good service and they keep coming back.
The employees aren't complaining, either. They feel like they're accomplishing something and helping the business stay competitive; they don't feel the need to check the want-ads each day; and they're making a decent wage so that they can take care of their families.
The trick is, how do you create this working environment? Even in the best of economic times, keeping a business competitive and profitable isn't easy. It's even harder when the economy is in a downturn. Whether you're the boss or an employee, there are some things that you can do to help make the workplace work better.
It's Not All Hard
There are several things that can be done almost immediately and at little or no cost that can take you far along the road to a better workplace or office:
Communicate. This is crucial. As the boss, you need to make sure your workers understand their roles in the business. Explain how their work is important to keeping the business up and running and profitable, not just for the next few months or quarter, but for the long-term, as well. Also, keep them informed about any changes being considered. This may mean changes in personnel - a new mid-level manager or the elimination of a position - as well as changes in products or services that the business will offer.
Listen. Don't just say you have an "open door policy" and that "suggestions are always welcome." Put it into action. Get that old Suggestion Box out of the storage room. Or set up an e-mail address or Web page on your Intranet for workers to post or send their ideas. Read the suggestions, and let the employees know that their ideas are being heard and count for something. Don't wait for suggestions, either. Ask for suggestions on how to do something better, easier or cheaper. Your workers are on the front-lines, and they may have good ideas of what works and doesn't, what customers like and don't, and usually have ideas on how to streamline a process.
Give feedback. Although most employees don't need a pat on the back everyday, everyone likes to be recognized for doing a good job every now and then. Let your workers know when something has been done well. Don't wait for the yearly performance appraisal or employee review to let your workers know that they're doing a good job. The opposite is true, too. A lot of employees like to know when they're doing something wrong or inefficiently. Constructive criticism can help the bottom line just as effectively as a compliment. A worker who's reminded of the best way to do things usually will work harder to get it right.
Prepare them for job. Don't assume that your workers have everything they need to do their jobs well and efficiently. Ask them! Is your computer fast enough? Do you have enough help or staff to complete the project? Do you know exactly what you're being asked to do and how long you have to do it?
Reward outstanding work. The economy is tough, but excellent performances by your employees should be rewarded in some way, and beyond saying "good job," although that, too, is important. A $25 gift card or gift certificate to a local restaurant or Internet retailer is a good idea. How about a reserved parking spot for a week or month?