Employers that provide the ideal work environment will benefit from a fully engaged workforce, a high level of employee retention, and a reputation that facilitates the hiring of talented personnel. The question is how to build the ideal work environment. Follow these tips and your workplace will prove productive.
Develop an Atmosphere of Inclusion
Everyone should feel welcomed and valued when they are at work. One’s beliefs, religion, race or other characteristics should not determine whether the rest of the office accepts them. View diversity as a strength. Recognize the value of alternative perspectives. The end result will be the ideal work environment with a highly creative workforce chock full of unique perspectives.
Employers Must be Supportive
An employer that mandates an open-door policy will find it quite easy to retain employees and attract “rainmakers”. Encourage open lines of communication between executives, management and the rest of the workforce. The best employers do not hesitate to recognize worker achievements to provide a sense of belonging and value. Another aspect of support is flexibility. Allow employees to achieve a work-life balance by altering their work schedule within reason and your office will be that much closer to the ideal work environment.
Lead by Example
Employees follow the lead of executives and managers. If these individuals do not lead by example and understand they are role models for the rest of the team, employees will lack meaningful guidance.
The Ideal Work Environment is Fair
Employees desire to be treated just like their peers. An employer that goes out of its way to ensure fairness in compensation, benefits, and promotional opportunities will find it is much easier to retain top-notch talent and recruit superstar employees. An important aspect of a fair workplace is equal opportunity for advancement. If employees feel they do not have the chance to contribute and climb the ladder, they will be tempted to jump ship.
Eliminate Social Comfort Zones
The formation of cliques in the workplace is toxic. An employer that encourages workers to step outside of their comfort zone and interact with as many co-workers as possible will yield the best results. Plan activities to expose employees to those who do not share their interests or background. Once employees get to know those outside of their department or clique, they will find it much easier to identify with and support their co-workers.
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