Creating a culture of passion in the workplace
Encourage work/life balance
Encouraging team members to have a work/life balance will keep them motivated. In Australia we work hard but believe we work to live not the other way around. Don’t just tell people to develop a good work/life balance, you have to provide an environment for it to flourish. Giving staff 60 hours of work a week to do and then giving them a free gym membership is an empty gesture. Really think about how you can build a balanced workplace.
Do simple things. For the more health conscious company leaders, offer to take interested staff with you when you do one of your lunchtime runs, or put on short fitness and health programs that get the team working together outside the office environment on something that is all about them. Make it clear that the company values fit, healthy, well rested team members.
Reward informally and formally, consistently
The most important tool for creating a healthy workplace culture is recognising team member’s contributions to the company. This can be as simple as saying “you have done a great job” or “I really appreciate what you have done”. If you do this, your team members will want to constantly impress you, which, in turn will increase productivity.
The other method is to adopt a rewards system where team members are able to gain points for the work they do so they get a discount off material things that they enjoy. You can access off-the-shelf points-based programs today that are easy to integrate with your business goals, simple to customise with your brand and easy to manage. Putting effort into rewarding and recognising your staff will boost company morale and profit.
Build a culture of capability
No one rises to low expectations. Your team members will aim for high performance and achievements if you show them that you are. Determine and communicate your employment brand. Form a cross-sectional group of top performing team members to determine why people work for your company. Consider conducting a culture and capability audit as a first place to start. Ask yourself, is there any of my team members capable of a bigger and better role in the business?
Understand the inner values of team members
It’s important to recognise that each individual has unique talents, abilities and motivators. Understanding your team member’s personal goals and motivators help you to understand their drivers and how to drive your business.
Your smiles and happiness will rub off
Ultimately, treating your team members brilliantly will mean that they treat the customers and stakeholders brilliantly. Be a positive, motivating force in your organisation. It brings out the best in everyone and sets the tone across the whole organisation.
