It should come as no surprise that happy employees are more productive. Research continues to support this fact, including a study of more than 700 workers conducted by the University of Warwick. It showed that happy employees were 12 percent more productive than their counterparts, while unhappy employees were 10 percent less productive.
In other research findings:
- A Harvard Business Review analysis of hundreds of studies showed an average of 31 percent higher productivity and 37 percent higher sales at companies with happier employees. In addition, creativity levels at companies with more satisfied workers were three times that of other organizations.
- A great example is Google, which has been ranked by Fortune magazine as the world’s best place to work. Google invested more in employee support and satisfaction, and saw an impressive 37 percent rise in productivity.
As summarized by University of Warwick study leader Dr. Daniel Sgroi, “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.”
Additional Insights
Psychologist Ron Friedman, author of The Best Place to Work, offers these insights into building employee satisfaction at your company:
- Frequency is more important than the size of rewards. Smaller positive feedback and rewards keep people happier, as opposed to frequent, larger events.
- Variety matters. People tend to discount activities that happen repeatedly, no matter how positive they may be. Make employee events and recognitions unique and tailored to each individual and/or team.
- Unexpected happenings are more impactful. When something surprising occurs, the brain automatically pays closer attention. This gives an event or recognition greater emotional impact. Make special employee lunches, social events and similar occurrences different, unexpected, and relatively frequent to retain this element of positive surprise. Friedman uses such examples as hot air balloon rides and wine tastings, versus material gifts.
- Focus on personal achievements. Pay attention to employee achievements and milestones. Asking about them in a group setting encourages peer recognition and gratitude, which can quickly become contagious.
Build Creativity, Teamwork and Innovation
Research also indicates that when employees are happy at work, they are better collaborators, they work toward common goals, and they are more innovative.
- Elevate people’s moods at the onset of projects. Serve refreshments, announce good news, or use an interactive, fun activity. Set a mindset that will benefit the task being undertaken.
Do you need additional ideas to build employee satisfaction and engagement? Consider partnering with the workforce development experts at PrideStaff Fresno. We’ll help you to custom design a strategy for optimal results at your company. Contact us today – and get 2018 started on a positive note.