| There are strategies that employers can create to | | | | shoulder massages. |
| foster an enjoyable workplace. Happy, motivated staff | | | | Corporate Responsibility - involve staff in a worthwhile |
| are more inclined to stay with the company. Most | | | | charitable cause. Helping others can be a great way to |
| organizations spend big dollars to recruit their | | | | feel a sense of achievement. |
| employees and training them. So what can you do to | | | | Be flexible. Children get sick, people get sick. Develop a |
| make sure your employees are happy and motivated | | | | good relationship with a temporary recruitment agency |
| to want to stay and grow with the company? | | | | that can help you fill a gap for a sick employee at |
| For example, the receptionist has one of the most | | | | short notice. Be flexible with working hours, especially if |
| important roles in the company but how often is she or | | | | a staff member is studying, has children or other |
| he recognized for their efforts? Greeting your clients | | | | personal issues. Many people work very well from |
| and answering the phone is an essential and important | | | | home, if not better than in the office. |
| role, but many a disgruntled receptionist can scare | | | | Ensure that your management is well trained in |
| your clients away. It is essential to always include all | | | | leadership skills. |
| staff from the most junior person upwards in your | | | | Make sure your employees' skills are fully utilized and |
| motivational planning. | | | | encourage goal setting. |
| Here are some suggestions on making a happier | | | | Consider rewards like week-ends away for your |
| workplace: | | | | employees as a bonus instead of cash incentives. |
| Create a visually appealing and comfortable workplace | | | | Many senior executives do not get the chance or |
| - aim to have an office with light colours. Ensure also | | | | make the time to go away with their spouse or family. |
| the temperature isn't too hot or cold, this is a tricky one | | | | Ask for feedback and take notice of the suggestions. |
| but very important as body temperatures vary. If your | | | | Value the ideas of your employees and implement the |
| budget doesn't extend to renovating maybe just | | | | useful ones. |
| adding an espresso coffee machine or some plants | | | | Keep ongoing professional development. Bring in |
| could be a small way to improve the office space. | | | | corporate trainers and use professional speakers to |
| Encourage a team environment - in today's training | | | | motivate your staff. Don't be mislead by the title |
| world, team building specialists range from fighter pilots, | | | | "Professional Speaker" many speakers offer follow on |
| drummers, Ninjas to Mt Everest climbers. There are | | | | and online training after their keynotes. |
| many exciting programmes to help encourage a team | | | | If changes are happening in the workplace, keep the |
| comradeship. | | | | staff updated. One way to lower morale is to have |
| Thank and praise - recognize achievements, initiatives | | | | 'uncertainty' in the office. |
| and long hours worked. | | | | Consider childcare facilities, week-end family picnics |
| Have some in-house training or bring in an expert on | | | | and other functions to show that your organization |
| Work Life balance at your next conference. | | | | appreciates family. |
| Many organizations now offer their staff in-house | | | | |