Business owners are constantly looking for ways to boost profits, usually focusing on increasing prices or streamlining costs. One area often overlooked is the general productivity of their own workforce.

By looking closer to home, you may realise a few subtle changes here and there could lead to increased performance. Here are 10 ways you can implement change internally to help your business reach its potential.

 

  1. Set targets – By setting specific goals, your staff will have a clear picture of what’s expected of them. They’ll have something to aim for each day, meaning they’re less likely to lose focus and be distracted by other issues.
  2. Improve conditions – Create a more relaxed and comfortable workspace. Staff appreciate a pleasant environment and their output will reflect this. Invest in new equipment so workers can complete their job to highest level.
  3. Positive feedback – Praising a job well done is a fantastic way to improve morale and reinforce good behaviour. If the employee feels appreciated, their productivity will increase over time.
  4. Staff bonding – By organising the occasional team day out, you’ll create stronger bonds within the group. Attending the weekly pub quiz should do the trick, and there’s a whole host of team-building games to try.
  5. Deal with complaints – You should handle any complaints over working conditions swiftly and efficiently. If an employee feels they aren’t being listened to, or can’t do their job properly, they will lose motivation.
  6. Personal issues – As a boss, you should take care about the welfare of your team. Spot any warning signs that there’s problems at home, talking to them in private or granting a leave of absence in certain cases.
  7. Designate responsibilities – Boredom can set in when workers are dealing with monotonous routines. If possible, switch responsibilities of your staff so they don’t stagnate or add fun incentives to keep things fresh.
  8. Staff training – As technologies improve, your team may require additional training to cope with their job demands. Keep an eye out for external training programs that will keep staff up to speed.
  9. Value each employee – If you value, or appear to value, relationships with some staff members over others, this can have an adverse effect on performance. Treat each employee fairly so discontent doesn’t arise.
  10. Stay authoritative – Without strong leadership, productivity will decrease. Assert your leadership with firm but fair conditions, letting staff know the importance of their job and how best to achieve their goals.

    If you found this helpful and want more ideas, you may be interested in Creating the Best Office Christmas Party on a Budget. It doesn’t have to just be for Christmas.