People spend a lot of their time in the workplaces more than they spend at home. There are many challenges in the places of work that inhibits productivity. Below are some considerations for creating a supportive environment for employees.
Treat Employee Right
Employees motivation is paramount is increasing productivity. Although such motivation is important, support runs much deeper than just improvement of performance at work. According to Shawn Murphy, CEO of Switch and Shift, the traditional view that employees are a means to an end, is long gone. Employees are reluctant to comply with workplace rules that were applicable in previous centuries. Most employees are leaving workplaces where they are subjected to rules and starting their own work. Others leave to find other employment where they are valued instead of being treated as mere assets. A supportive work environment recognizes employee’s efforts and improves the relationship with fellow workmates and the management. When the management respects employees as more than just work resources, productivity and employees’ retention rate is likely to increase.
Recognize Achievement
Although motivational incentives inspire employees, establishing clear goals is very important. Acknowledging when such goals are meant is more powerful than just usual incentives. A management that recognizes an employee’s achievement creates a positive culture that encourages employees to excel in their jobs. When employees receive praises for a job well done, they automatically try to improve their level of performance.
Employees Autonomy
Building a supportive foundation requires trusting that employees will productively use workday hours to accomplish. A recent study shows that employees are likely to find ways of making the workplace efficient when given the autonomy to make decisions. Employees feel more empowered when given the ability to make decisions rather than being micromanaged.
Flexibility
Nearly every employee desire to work in an environment where there is flexibility to accommodate certain personal events such as doctor’s appointments. Employees become more productive and engaged when there is an optimal balance between work and personal demands. Research has shown that workplace flexibility helps to improve physical and mental health. For instance, if an employee should be given time to attend to their children medical emergencies.
Eliminate Employee Fears
According to entrepreneur and angel investor Amy Rees Anderson, it is normal for employees to make mistakes. In fact, mistakes are conduits of great innovations and ideas and help employees move out of comfort zones. The management should create a supportive environment where employees are not afraid to fail.