Improving your team’s happiness can increase productivity

There's a common misconception that success determines happiness. However, research shows that when people work with a positive attitude, productivity and creativity comes naturally. The happiness that derives from success is momentary, but those who have established a positive attitude while at work are more likely to overcome challenges. According to Harvard Business Review, every business outcome shows improvement when the brain is positive. On top of that, research done by the University of Warwick shows that people are roughly 12% more productive as they get happier.

To have employees who are engaged and hard-working, companies don't need gyms on-site or free snacks. What they do need is conscious efforts to harbor positive attitudes in the work environment. Here are some tips on how to improve your team's productivity, through boosting positivity:

Figure out productive ways to manage stress

Stress comes with the territory of work, although that doesn't necessarily need to be a bad thing. The attitude that you carry about stress can determine how you react to it. One method of coping with stressors is by organizing them into a list. Separate them by those that you can control (projects, due bills) and those that you can't (the stock market, the unpredictability of the future). Then, choose one stressor that you can control and a step that you can take to reduce it. This way, you'll be able to feel productive and less out-of-control, which can lead to boosting a positive mind-set.

Provide consistent feedback

Employees want feedback. Putting time and effort into a project, and then not hearing encouragement or constructive criticism from management is like throwing it into the void. According to Forbes, 87% of employees crave opportunities for growth — but less than 40% said they'd learned anything new within the past 30 days. Managers should be able to be direct with employees while showing that they care about employees and the work they are putting out. Figure out how to balance praise and criticism, and make feedback about the product and not the person.

Be flexible

In the digital age, there are many opportunities for technology to assist with the workload. Work management platforms and the proper utilization of modern tools can allow employees to more seamlessly collaborate. It also, in some fields, can permit a more flexible routine. Remote working and flexibility ranked second in regards to employee happiness. If it is possible, allow employees to work remotely and work with their schedules.

There's a common misconception that success determines happiness. However, research shows that when people work with a positive attitude, productivity and creativity comes naturally.

Make sure everyone has a sense of purpose

A business having a clear, well-defined mission and purpose boosts employee loyalty. Managers and employees should focus on their own personal why — what makes them want to be a part of the company's purpose. Regardless of their defined role, if they feel that they are contributing productively to the overall mission of the company, the more likely it is they'll feel happy in their day-to-day work.

Know your employees, and help them balance their goals

Not all goals need to be directly related to work to be relevant. If you find out an employee or coworker is working toward an advanced degree or is working on a creative project, support their endeavors. If they are able to work toward things out of work, they're more likely to be engaged and productive while at work. Individual development plans can track employee's progress towards meeting their own goals, career-focused or not. It is important to remember that the people within your organization are vital to its success. Boosting the happiness of your employees will also boost progress and engagement.

Legal help with employee regulations will make sure your business is fostering a productive environment. Having an attorney for small business can make sure you are in compliance with federal and state laws set forth by the U.S. Department of Labor.

Categorised in: Starting a Business in Arizona

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