It’s that time of year again, where the gyms are filled with people trying to shake the extra weight and the coffee shops are empty while they try to avoid sweets. It’s resolution time and you probably have a few of your own that you’re working on. But if you’re a business owner or manager, you’re probably hoping to make your workplace a happier place in general. And it’s easy to do if you take a few suggestions.
1. Invest in Something for the Whole Team (like a fruit delivery!)
You probably weren’t thinking a fruit basket when I mentioned buying something for the team, right? The truth is, it doesn’t take a whole lot to let them know you’re still thinking of them in the new year, nor does it take much to let them know you appreciate their hard work last year. While showing your gratitude with a new coffee machine for the office is a nice thought, showing you’re investing in their health and wellness is even better. That’s why Fruitful’s UK fruit basket delivery service is the perfect gift and a gift that keeps giving. Rather than fill your employees with caffeine, fill them with vitamins and minerals that will make them feel better in the long run.
2. Resolve to Recognize Good Work
It’s easy to let your employees get lost in the shuffle of the day to day work. Why reward employees for good work, shouldn’t it all be good work? The truth is, a little recognition can go a long way. Make it a priority in the new year to recognize good work when you see it, whether that means on-the-spot praises or a weekly email that gives a shout out to top performing workers. If you’re able to sweeten the deal a bit by offering a small gift card reward or an extra vacation day, do it! You can create a healthy sense of competition in the office that will result in more productivity and let employees know that you value when they go above and beyond.
3. Help your Employees with their Goals for the New Year
You aren’t the only one with resolutions in the new year, and you may be surprised to know that a lot of your employees’ goals might have to do with you. They’re hoping for more sales, a new creative venture or even a promotion. And none of these things are bad for you. Start the new year by sitting down with each employee and hearing from them what they hope to achieve. Then offer your services to help them! Let them know about resources they may not have known existed or pledge to check in with them periodically to see how their goals are going. And most importantly, write those goals down. A recent study showed that people are far less likely to reach their goals without breaking them down and writing them out – something they called “implementation intentions.” Have your employees break their goals down into “if-then” statements so they can clearly see the cause and effect before their eyes. Then schedule periodic meetings to keep those goals at the forefront of their minds. They’ll be happy to progress and you’ll be happy to have better workers.
It doesn’t take a lot to make some lasting changes at work, especially ones that will benefit the whole team.
Author Bio: Krista Coulter is a communications major with experience in workplace communication. She enjoys sharing her insights into effective workplace communication to help businesses grow and learn.