Studies show that, sadly, many Brits are not happy at work. Research from the London School of Business and Finance (LSBF) revealed that 47% of Brits are looking to switch jobs. On top of that, more than one in five are seeking to change their job in the coming year. Clearly, the British job industry is not as happy as it could be.
The problem is even more noticeable for younger people. Of the 18-34 year olds asked, 66% wanted a new job. But even with this clear unhappiness in their roles, the research also showed that many people are too nervous about financial instability to change their careers.
With so many Brits feeling stuck in a job they aren’t happy with, how can the workplace become more positive? After all, a happy employee shows 12% more productivity, so their happiness is your concern. Employees and managers can benefit from the following tips:
Open door
Your staff shouldn’t feel alone. Whether you’re an employee or a manager, regularly consulting one another in the workplace is a great way to keep projects moving and avoids any kind of anxiety about unclear instructions. Creating an atmosphere of friendly cooperation is conducive to a good working relationship.
Extra training
Employees – you are well within your rights to request additional training if you think it will benefit the workplace. The worst they can say is no, but most should be receptive to the idea. Not only can it lead to you picking up new skills and feeling more valuable, it is also beneficial for the business. According to a 2011 report by Andries De Grip and Jan Sauermann, training led to a 9% increase in staff productivity.
It is worth considering some training courses, such as a change management course provided by Impact International, to strengthen staff productivity and nurture a happier environment. Not only will your staff be happier, your retention rate will rise.
Encourage co-worker culture
Open-plan offices are very popular among millennials and tech start-up companies for good reason! A communication culture helps aid the spirit of cooperation in the workplace, which leads to an increase of happiness (which then leads to more productivity.) Harvard researchers Phil Stone and Tal Ben-Shahar found that students who had social support at school and at home were happier and better at dealing with stress. Carrying this kind of support into the workplace sets strong foundations for an increase in overall happiness.
Morale can be boosted by team meetings, office activities like sweepstakes, and staff nights out. As a manager, you should be budgeting for this type of activity, as you’ll be repaid in increased productivity. As an employee, do anything you can to get involved. Even if your workplace doesn’t provide much for your team, you can set up your own internal sweepstakes or fantasy sport leagues to help boost happiness and keep things on track.
A happy employee will want to do well for your company. Make happiness your priority and your working environment will improve.
