Keep Team Members Happy And Productive

Know your Employees

This is much easier in a smaller business than in a larger one but taking the time to get to know the people who you are managing is worth the effort. This isn't to suggest that you know every intricate detail, but knowing them well enough to tell the difference between them having a bad day, or when something more severe is going on is essential.

Employees will show more respect for a manager who shows awareness and will feel more able to approach you with any issues rather than risk the quality of what they are working on.

Introduce Incentives

It isn't possible in every work-based situation to introduce bonuses or extra days off as a reward for good work, however smaller gestures such as buying lunch, finishing early or simply bringing in some cakes can work wonders. There doesn't need to be a target system in place to use incentives, it can be for something as simple as a thank you after a busy week.

Employee Opinions

A key element to a successful workforce is making sure that you include your workers in the decision-making process. Obviously the degree to which they are involved depends on the type of work and the situation, but even having an office meeting or asking for feedback can help you connect better with your employees. It will make them feel that they have had an input and will feel more involved with the job in hand and want to make sure that it is successful.

Train and Progress your Workforce

Make sure that all employees have the relevant qualifications and skills needed to do their job; if they don't then offer it. This will mean that employees are happier and that the job is more likely to be completed at a higher standard.

Individuals are more likely to stay loyal to a company who offers them progression, so ask each individual on a regular basis whether there is any training they feel could benefit them.

Not only will a happy workforce be more productive in terms of getting work completed on time and with higher quality, but it will also mean employees will take less time off sick through illnesses such as stress. Changes made do not need to cost much money but will be priceless in the determination and motivation of the workforce.