There is a direct correlation between happy employees and improved workplace productivity. In fact, study after study after study shows that a happy worker creates a high-performing business. In one of the studies, Dr Sgroi of the Department of Economics at the University of Warwick said: “the driving force seems to be that happier workers use the time they have more effectively, increasing the pace at which they can work without sacrificing quality.”

It seems that not only are happy employees more productive, they are less prone to making errors that can cost the business money. But before we talk about how you can increase your workplace happiness factor, let’s take a look at some of the most common reasons for employee unhappiness. 

Every workplace has unique challenges, but you are most likely to see these 5 on any list of problem areas.

• Bad bosses – micromanagers top the list of “what makes a bad boss?” I’m sure you weren’t surprised.
• Low value work – unhappy employees feel that the work they do is not engaging or challenging so they feel unfulfilled.
• Lack of career development opportunities – no one is happy if they feel like they’re stuck.
• No recognition – we all have an inherent need to be recognized for a job well done or at the very least, appreciated for our efforts.
• Zero workplace flexibility – in an era where hybrid working (remote work + in office work) is beginning to be the new normal, having no clear-cut delineation between personal lives and work is a sure formula for burnout and employee dissatisfaction.

To improve your organization’s happiness quotient, here are 3 tips:

1. Manage well and manage up

Good managers provide meaningful feedback and give recognition to a job well done. These managers equip their employees with the skills so that they can work with autonomy and get things done their way. Great managers encourage personal development and career progress so that employees understand that they have opportunities to grow and can constantly aim for the next level in their career.

2. Provide high value work

Nobody wants to feel like a cog in a wheel. By providing interesting work, managers can stimulate creativity and innovation. When workers are given high value work, they feel challenged and look forward to coming to work.

3. Give them flexibility

Having the technology and capacity to contact people via instant messaging or chat does not mean that employees are available 24/7. With so many things to juggle in this never ending pandemic, employees should prioritize a healthy work-life balance. Employers should be able to respect the time of workers with a fixed schedule. No one likes to get last minute tasks after work hours. If the company has the bandwidth to accommodate flexible or hybrid working, then by all means do so. By offering people the choice of flexible hours or remote working options, employers actually increase job satisfaction.

What are your tried and tested tips for increasing happiness in the workplace? Share them with us in the comments. Remember to work smart and be a blessing to someone today. Stay safe and healthy!

Written by Jaie O. TheHelp