Improving employee productivity should be a goal of any business out there that strives for success. True productivity comes from being motivated. When your team is supported and they have the right tools and clarity about what is expected of them they will perform their best.
Rather than pushing harder smart employers to look for ways they can inspire performance. Take a look at how you can create a positive and productive environment for their employees.
Create a Clear and Supportive Work Structure
Employees perform best when they know exactly what is expected for them. Make sure that you have clear goals and a structured process that includes consistent communication.
Regular one-on-one meetings that involve managers and employees will help to address any challenges that may arise. It would also help to align your expectations correctly.
When team members have clarity and direction they are less likely to waste a lot of time and second guess the decisions that they make. Support should also come in the form of proper tools and resources.
Having unclear systems and outdated software as well as insufficient training is going to cause your employees to hold back on their talents. Make sure that you invest in efficient processes and reliable tools as it removes barriers to productivity and ensures your team to become successful.
Promote a Healthy Work-Life Balance
Burnout is one of the biggest productivity killers out there. When your employees are stretched too thin and they never have time to recharge and their work quality is going to suffer.
You should be encouraging a healthy work life balance by giving flexible hours and offering remote work options where possible. Giving regular breaks will also show that you care about long-term performance and not just about input in the short term.
Managers can model appropriate work life balance behavior themselves by making sure they leave work on time, respect boundaries and take breaks.
Additionally, when employees feel trusted to manage their workload without being micromanaged they are more likely to take ownership of their time and deliver you some amazing results.
Recognize Effort and Reward Results
People naturally work harder when they feel that their efforts are being noticed and appreciated. Regular recognition whether it be formal or informal is going to significantly boost morale and motivation.
Praise your employees during team meetings with personal thank you notes or even recognize them in an internal newsletter.
Thoughtful rewards are a great way to show appreciation. For example, after a busy project or high performing quarter consider buying empty hamper baskets and filling them with thoughtful gifts and treats. This is a great way to show your employees that you care about them and value their input.
Encourage Collaboration and Minimize Distractions
Productivity doesn’t just take place inside a vacuum. You should encourage collaboration between departments so that new ideas can be generated. You’ll see problems solved faster with the community input. At the same time you should minimize workplace distractions by avoiding unnecessary meetings and unclear priorities this will ensure your employees stay focused and productive.
