Workplaces are constantly evolving to cater to the dynamic needs of today’s workforce. As a result, they are more diverse and technology-driven than before while adapting to shifting employee expectations. One of the keys to managing the rapid pace of workplace changes is to ensure a positive work environment. This can be done by building team morale.
According to a recent global Gallup study, only 13 percent of the workforce is engaged at work. In the U.S., the workplace engagement levels of employed residents are at 33 percent.
The many benefits of great team morale
Higher profitability: When employees are highly engaged, they perform at higher levels and are willing to handle extra responsibilities. Organizations that are invested in team building achieve four times more growth than companies that are not focused on morale building. Past studies have found profitability can go up by as much as 21 percent when morale and engagement levels are high.
Better customer engagement: High levels of team morale help companies improve customer engagement levels. This in turn has a positive impact on the brand reputation and sales.
Improved retention: Every month in 2018, 3.5 million Americans on an average quit their jobs according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. With the high cost of hiring, employee retention is a top priority for businesses. The Gallup study showed workplaces with high levels of morale experienced less turnover.
Healthy workforce: When employees are engaged, there are fewer workplace accidents and better health outcomes. As a consequence, they experience reduced absenteeism while boosting productivity.
How to build your team’s morale
Offer professional development and training: When employees feel their skills are being underutilized in the workforce, their morale and engagement levels can dip. A sense of frustration can also come when employees feel there is a lack of support to perform at expected levels. Providing mentoring and training programs help employees acquire new skills, grow and develop. Such programs create a supportive and positive work environment.
Invest in managerial skills: It is well known that employees do not quit jobs but quit bad managers. Finding and nurturing managerial talent is a top priority. Great managers and supervisors are adept at morale and team building and are able to empower employees to take ownership of their own and of their team’s engagement.
Promote healthier lifestyles: Physical and mental health impact employees’ morale and happiness. Introducing wellness programs in the workplace can help reduce absenteeism due to illnesses, reduce health risks, promote safety and enhance productivity. A study found that just five minutes of walking around every hour can boost energy levels and mood. Promoting healthier lifestyles also relates to enabling employees to achieve a good work-life balance.
Focus on communication and transparency: A Slack study showed that 80 percent of employees expect transparency and communication on decisions made in their companies. Making employees feel valued is key to boosting their morale. Open, honest and frequent communication, feedback and regular recognition of employees’ performance can help boost engagement levels.
Following these suggestions can help you and your organization to achieve the many benefits of positive team morale. You may also be interested in our post Boosting Employee Morale.