I recently saw a 'Happiness at Work Index' report talking about the top thing stressing us out and affecting our performance at work. The findings show that our teams are working longer, harder and are feeling the strain a lot more than in previous years.
So what can we do to make things better? Of course we would all like a big pay rise but even without the current economic climate this would be tough sell to management. Here are a few tips on how to get more while spending less...
Show you care: Sounds a little cheesy but a little appreciation goes a long way. Praise costs nothing and can go a lot further than you think. Public praise within the team can also have the effect of increasing competitiveness and therefore productivity.
Show respect: Never ask someone to do something you wouldn't be prepared to do yourself. People always work harder for a manager they respect rather than a manager they fear. Having a team where all members mutually respect one anaother makes for a much more pleasant working environment and again can help increase productivity and improve results.
Trust: As scary as it can be to let go and let your team run with a campaign, project or event without you, it lets your team feel that you trust them and rate them. No one wants to be micro managed and many people flourish when given a little trust and space to show their true worth.
Personal Development: back to the old adage - Whats in it for me? - offering something to your team for inputting more into a task or project will get greater performance out of them. Whether it is the chance to gain a new skillset, increase experience or to provide variety, most people want to be challenged, stretched and given the chance to develop their skills. Giving your team the chance to take on new responsibilities or projects could be more welcome than a straight pay rise for continuing with their current job.
Harmonious teams: Trying to ensure your team get along cannot be underrated. They spend so much time together that any conflict will reduce productivity and cause more stress. Keeping the team buoyed will impact their performance.
Keep your team in the loop: In uncertain times people want to know what is going on and if they feel they are being kept in the dark rumours and gossip will flourish. Knowing what the team and organisational goals are will help employees feel part of something bigger and they will be more likely to drive things in the right direction.
