Cultivating a positive working environment within a business has a number of benefits, for both employees and for companies. Business leaders will generally find that, when employees report a greater sense of happiness and connectivity in the workplace, they will be more productive. While employees that are a part of a positive environment are more likely to remain committed to the position too, wanting to remain part of a cohesive and potentially exciting business.

To cultivate this environment isn’t always easy and there are certainly no shortcuts. However, it is a worthwhile pursuit and going the extra mile, beyond the duty of care obligations, will improve a company and allow it to outshine competitors, even attracting a greater deal of industry talent.

Understand Remote Preferences

One of the most significant discussions facing workplaces today is to what extent, if at all, employees should be supported to work remotely. A shared business space has been standardised for years and some companies remain staunchly in support of continuing this way, even against employee preference. Others, however, have embraced remote operations and even seen a rise in productivity as a result.

The decisions should be considered from both sides and before business leaders settle on an outcome, it is important to hear employee feedback.

Clear Communication

If employees are not able to offer feedback in a safe and regular forum, they are likely to feel disregarded and ultimately without influence. Hosting regular feedback sessions, either with individual employees or groups, can be remarkably valuable.

Remote teams can also benefit from regular coffee break sessions, meetings that are kept short but allow employees to interact and talk with managers outside of professional obligations.

Professional Development

Progression within a professional environment is considered to be one of the most important aspects of a role, motivating individuals to push themselves and achieve a greater skillset, ultimately becoming more valuable to the business. Corporate training courses are, for this reason, invaluable, not only supporting an employee team’s skill development and loyalty but also attracting outside talent to the business too.

Facilitate Connection

Team bonding is an important aspect of the workplace and interpersonal skills are essential for managers, allowing them to encourage greater connectivity between individuals and, as a result, facilitate more efficient and effective outcomes. 

To improve the bond between employees, efforts should be made to encourage interaction beyond professional responsibilities. Social events or meet-ups, even in-office sports clubs, are proven effective examples.

Workplace Counselling

With the rising concern about mental health, especially in the wake of 2020’s health crisis, the duty of care within the workplace has changed. Companies are now needed to make more effort to ensure the elimination of mental health stigma and that employees’ mental health is considered with value alongside physical health.

For some businesses, success has been found in offering workplace counselling. These regular sessions allow employees the opportunity to seek mental health opportunities through the business, improving their well-being and positivity within the company.