Do You Know How to Keep Your Employees Happy? Here Are 5 Ways

No matter what industry you are in, your organization cannot go up and forward without the people behind it. Great leaders and managers know that it takes two to tango – and here are some tips on how to keep your team smiling and working well.

More often than not, business leaders know more about the bigger picture than their team would. So, it really pays to keep them informed. Let them know what’s going on, both positively and negatively. These include things such as probable challenges down the road, as well as new products you have lined up. This strengthens the bond and feeling of unity among workers, letting them know that they are indeed an important part of a company.

It’s one thing for a person to simply ask, “How are you?” But it’s an entirely different thing to mean it. Unless you have a tight bond with your team, you might only get a smile, “I’m fine,” or “Good, how are you?” Unless you actually engage in conversation further than that, then few of your employees would actually use that opportunity to express a concern at work, or something personal that affects their work.

No, this is not a suggestion that you should let your employees drink on the job – this is a non-work activity that will keep things in balance. Remember the saying, “all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.” Maybe once a quarter, organize a team building activity outside of office hours. It could be a simple dinner, you could go out for drinks, or actually take them out camping, whichever may let the team let loose a bit in an environment other than the office.

It’s not that people should work hard, but to work better. And no, you don’t have to be as lavish as Google can get with their employees – sometimes even just a nice coffee machine to keep employees fueled each day is enough to motivate them. There’s no describing the effect a busted vendo machine or coffee maker can have on a bunch of people. Even a small game room or lounge where employees can relax (within reason) is nice, and it’s an ideal way for employees release their burdens even for just 15-30 minutes at a time.

As yourself the same question – Am I happy and motivated? If the answer is no, then it’s time to take a step back. Leading by example, by being a happy and caring team lead, will demonstrate your love for your job and pride in the company. Have the same attitude you want your team to have.