Have you ever wondered about the health of your workplace?
And no, I don’t mean germs… although that’s important too (especially during flu season).
Sure, key performance indicators (KPIs), returns on investment (ROI), and other barometers that illustrate your workplace’s accomplishments are important. But have you ever thought about the other ways that you can measure your workplace’s success?
Corporate culture, work environment, and work-life balance are equally important areas of focus that can actually boost productivity. Just look to companies like Google, Facebook, and Ottawa’s very own Shopify, who have embraced the idea of creating a vibrant and dynamic corporate culture that is reflective of their company’s vision, but also a place where employees want to go to work.
Even though these big companies have equally large budgets, it is possible to find inspiration in what they are doing (and I’m not talking about an in-office slide, although they are pretty cool).
I’ve come up with a few ways to help your business improve its corporate-culture without having to shell out the big bucks. And if you feel like you could use some more guidance to build the workplace of your dreams, get in touch and we can work together.
Aesthetics
Considering that most people spend about one-third of their lives working, why not make the work environment as comfortable, pleasing, and clean, as possible. Think about soft colours, natural light, and practical and ergonomic furniture. An aesthetically pleasing and comfortable environment can actually have real impacts on staff productivity.
Trust
My clients that are the happiest have managers that are invested in them. Their managers foster a productive listening environment and are in tune with how their employees are doing, on a professional level, but also on a personal one. Not to say that managers need to know the ins-and-outs of employees dating or family lives, rather they know if something big is happening that may require a more flexible work schedule. Which brings me to my next point.
Flexibility
A flexible work environment can help your team reach that ever-elusive dream – work-life balance. And while it often refers to flexible hours, it extends beyond that. Ever considered slightly longer lunches to allow enough time to go for a walk or to the gym? Maybe start up a weekly walking group? Or even 15 minute health breaks to talk about sleep hygiene or nutrition? A hint to get you started – more than just saying that your company believes in work-life balance, demonstrate it through modeling, use of language, and positive reinforcement.
Group learning
If you notice that your team seems very stressed, over-tired, or are struggling to find work-life balance, invite a guest speaker to host a lunch and learn on a specific topic. Even better, organize a committee to help apply the speaker’s recommendations into your workplace.
If these ideas sound great, but you’re not sure where to begin, I can help. ModernOT can host Lunch and Learns at your workplace on various topics, including: stress management, nutrition, and sleep hygiene.