As long as employees turn up to work and complete tasks, that’s all that matters right? Wrong!

Smart employers will consider the emotional well-being of their employees and implement strategies to ensure that company morale is high. Happy workers are more likely to produce results, take fewer days off, and stay loyal to the company. They generally do things more effectively and with greater interest and if they are at ease at work, they are likely to be more alert and less stressed.

To measure employee satisfaction, many companies will conduct surveys or face-to-face meetings with employees to gain information. A useful guide in measuring job satisfaction and setting up company induction programs is Dr. Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs pyramid (coming next week). According to Maslow you should be aiming to get your people to a ‘self-actualised’ position, this way they are in the best position to add great value to your organisation.

Events

Many experts believe that one of the best ways to maintain employee satisfaction is to make workers feel like part of a family or team. Organise office parties and group outings so that workers can develop friendships with the other employees. Events like paintball wars and backpacking or camping trips can also be an excellent team-building strategy to strengthen working relationships.

Environment

Is your workplace an enjoyable place to be? Design features, certain staff amenities and a clean environment can make the world of difference in employee satisfaction. Although professionalism is necessary, allowing employees to keep family photos or small trinkets on their desk can make them feel more comfortable at their work station and can also contribute to improving morale.

Bonuses

Of course, money cannot solve all morale issues but raises and bonuses can seriously affect employee satisfaction and should be given when possible. They also give staff something to work towards and can be a large factor in improving workability.

Respect

These things aside, the real component in high company morale and the backbone of employee satisfaction is respect for workers and the job they perform. In every interaction with management, employees should be treated with courtesy and interest. Employers should always be open to discussing problems with their staff and, even if meeting their demands is not possible, showing them that they are being heard and considered fairly will often improve morale.