The people in your business are some of your best resources. If they’re neglected, they can be the weak point that sinks the business. If they’re utilised well, they can carry you to whole new strengths. So you need to make sure your people are more than just employees. They need to be turned into a full-fledged team. Here is how you set that transformation in motion.
Finding the right people
First, you need to make sure you have the right people for the job. No, this doesn’t mean needing five years’ experience and a hobby that directly contributes to their role. It means finding the people with the traits they need to fit the role, not just the skills. Someone in HR needs to have a mind that’s suited to organisation, for example. Focus more on soft skills, you will have the opportunity to shape their hard skills to the job.
Build those bonds
A positive work environment is what you want. A hostile one will only get in the way. So, how do you eliminate hostility? By getting your team, and yourself, to bond. By building connections. Help build those connections by doing simple things like having team building exercises for coworkers. Games like Two Truths And A Lie give people the chance to get more comfortable with one another.
Show them their value
Your team don’t just work for the money. If they do, you need to change that. They need to work to contribute to success and to fulfil and excel a role. When they do, you need to show that you value them. Small rewards or even just verbal thanks can be the right acknowledgement of the value. Also, show you inherently value them by protecting them. By putting their health as a top priority. For example, in offices, by helping them fight off common problems like RSI.
Make it easier for them to do their job
If an employee isn’t being as productive as they or you would like, it’s not always their fault. It might be fault of how the role is organised. They might need the right software to help them keep track of time or do admin work faster. Take the time with your employees to see how they’re doing and if you can work together to systemise their tasks and make them much less effort.
Develop their skills
They don’t just need a bit of help doing the tasks they already do, either. Employees need upward mobility. Not only does it help you retain it. It’s an even better way of showing how much you value them. Use training programs and create employee development plans with them.
Listen to them
Most importantly, don’t fall into the trap that too many employers do. Listen to them. If they are adamant that their current set-up helps them be more productive, take heed to it. Organise team meetings with an agenda that isn’t dictated by you. Give them the chance to have their say.
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