How To Create An Inviting Workplace

When employees work in a productive office, they feel in control of their lives and stay on task with what needs to be completed. The staff feels empowered to do good work and positively represent the company. But how do you establish an inviting workplace? Today, we are going to address this topic.

Topics

Define your company values in writing.
Have a written process and procedure for every position in your company.
Have consistent meetings scheduled to talk about what needs to be done.
Allow employees to feel safe.
Have up-to-date technology so the employees can be productive.
Give incentives to ALL employees.
Acknowledge Unspoken biases.
Keep An Upbeat office.

Define your company values in writing.

What do you want your business to represent? How do you want your employees and customers to see you and your business? Read A Labor of Love: How to Craft Your Company’s Core Values article from Inc. Magazine for more guidance.

Have a written process and procedure for every position in your company.

This tip will describe the critical actions to take for different scenarios. It also helps new employees show how the process works and their responsibilities. There will be no question. This step takes some time, but definitely, it will work. We offer Procedure Evaluations and Refinement Services if you need help with this section.

Have consistent meetings scheduled to talk about what needs to be done.

Depending on your industry, this could be a weekly meeting or every other week. At this meeting, the group should discuss how the process is going. Any changes suggested or any other task handled in the office can be discussed at the meeting.

You can meet via Zoom or other online collaboration services or face-to-face. But always keep it “camera-on” so you can see the other team members.

Be transparent in the communication and activities that are happening within the company. No one likes to be lied to. Getting all stakeholders involved in particular situations, concerns, and updates will go a long way.

Allow employees to feel safe.

Allow employees to discuss their issues in a safe, private space to show them that they can express their minds. This tip will help them feel a part of the team and more willing to contribute ideas and help improve processes. Note: Make it clear that you do not tolerate gossip or negative comments about other personnel or clients (Affiliate Link). Inform them that they can bring ideas to you that will improve the process of the business. Be respectful and expect your employees to be polite to others, clients (Affiliate Link), and management.

83% of employees said recognition for contributions is more fulfilling than any rewards and gifts. @PRNewswire Share on X

The leader sets the tone for the environment. A good leader will allow you to express your feelings, viewpoints, etc.

Leaders who don’t fear their leaders will be more willing to see the opportunities.

Watch this video from Simon Sinek for more inspiration.

Being heard is crucial in an office environment. Watch this video by Celeste Headlee | TEDxCreativeCoast to learn how to Have a Good Conversation.

Listening is important. Your staff will interact with you when you listen to them. Read more about effective listening here.

Have up-to-date technology so the employees can be productive.

Have up-to-date technology so the employees can be productive. There can’t be excuses for incomplete work. Keeping software up-to-date helps with this. Update software as needed to stay on top of the newest technology. This also helps with the security of your computers and business products. Read more by visiting our other posts about keeping your small business safe: Mobile Security Tips To Keep Your Business Information Private 12 Important updates to keep your Business Secure.

Give incentives to ALL employees.

Give incentives not only to upper management but also to administrative and support staff. They are the ones who keep the process moving forward. Giving the staff incentives once or twice a year will help them feel more engaged with the business and a part of the bigger picture. This incentive could be in the form of a bonus or a nonmonetary incentive.

This video is from Amy Edmondson, who researched how a healthcare facility managed its prescription issues made by staff. It’s a powerful research study that shows how it is important to incentivize your staff and allow everyone to engage in the company’s views.

Acknowledge Unspoken biases.

Unspoken biases are everywhere—no use in denying them. Learning about them is critical in our diverse society. Evaluating individuals based on their personality, not the affiliate group, is just one way to eliminate the biases in your small business. Read more here to start your journey to a better workplace. Read more about diversity in the workplace and how that will impact your business.

Keep An Upbeat office.

Lastly, it is important to make your office motivating for your staff. I know it is easier said than done. Things like keeping your office free of clutter and having a pet as the business mascot are just a few options you can do to make your office upbeat and less depressing.

If your office staff likes music, pick music that is uplifting and maybe does not have lyrics. Spotify has some great options for your office. It may even help them improve their productivity.

90% of respondents said that a fun work environment is very or extremely motivating. @PRNewswire Share on X

Your job as a small business owner is to look at your business and think creatively to motivate and help employees. Keeping your office friendly and open will make you and your staff more likely to be productive and produce success. I hope this helps give you some ideas for improving your small business.

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