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Staff Management Advice

Employee Morale: It’s the Small Stuff

As competition for top talent intensifies, companies are placing added focus on retaining their most valued employees. To keep top talent on board, employers must go beyond offering appealing compensation and benefits packages and stay attune to key factors affecting staff morale.

It’s critical for firms to realize the truth of the old saying, “Money isn’t everything.” Salary is certainly an important component of an employee’s overall job satisfaction, but it’s also just that – one part. The little things can have a big impact on staff loyalty, and your efforts don’t need to be complicated or costly to be effective. Below are some simple tips for improving staff morale:

• Create a positive work environment. Focus on developing a comfortable work environment in your department. Your office should be a place where people are given the respect and resources they need to perform their jobs, as well as opportunities for professional development and advancement.
• Encourage two-way communication. Companies with high employee morale typically are characterized by open, honest communication. An open-door policy will encourage your team to come to you with questions and concerns.
• Have fun. Social interaction builds camaraderie, so consider hosting breakfasts, monthly birthday celebrations and quarterly department lunches so your staff can enhance their rapport with one another. During periods of heightened workloads or tight deadlines, remember that humor can defuse tension and lighten the mood.
• Recognize and reward. No one likes to feel that his or her efforts are unnoticed or unappreciated. In fact, in a survey by our company, employees cited failure to acknowledge their achievements as a top morale zapper. Make it a priority to frequently reinforce outstanding employee performance by offering sincere praise. A single heartfelt “thank you” delivered in person will do wonders for morale.

  Many studies have shown that when employee morale goes up, there’s a comparable increase in productivity and the bottom line. As a manager, this can certainly raise your spirits as well.

  This article is provided courtesy of Robert Half Management Resources. For more information, visit www.roberthalfmr.com.