Hey Visionaries!
It’s Talk it Out Tuesday, and today, we’re going to talk about PEOPLE, not just any PEOPLE but retaining your team!
Did you know a positive work culture can boost productivity by 12% and reduce employee turnover by 50%? (1)
I’ve noticed that many small businesses could benefit from better team management by creating a supportive and collaborative work environment where everyone feels valued. People are not just transactions in business; we must not treat them as we please.
Even if we hear that anyone can be replaced, it’s essential to realize that finding a replacement takes more time, money, and effort than retaining your existing team.
Creating a positive and inclusive culture where people enjoy their work is critical because it fosters a positive, productive, and motivated work environment. When your team feels valued, supported, and engaged, they are more likely to stay with your business long-term, be more productive, and contribute to a positive work environment. Conversely, if your team feels unappreciated, unsupported, and disengaged, they are more likely to leave, be less productive, and contribute to a negative work environment. Therefore, creating a culture where people enjoy their work is essential to the success of any business or organization.
Here are some specific examples of how to create a positive work environment for your team:
1. TALK IT OUT: Encourage your team to share their ideas, feedback, and concerns. Provide different methods of sharing, whether one-on-one meetings, anonymous submissions, or team 360 feedback sessions. Listen and DO! Take action to show your team you are actively listening.
2. Give Word of Affirmation, Acts of Service or Gifts: Celebrate your team’s successes and milestones—both collectively and individually. Try not to shy away from feedback so that when you give recognition, it is well received. It’s okay to say, “Job well done!” Incentive your team to increase morale, whether it is a gift card or an outing.
3. Remember, if you don’t SOW, you don’t GROW: Offer opportunities to upskill and expand their learning. Even as a small business owner, you can implement programs that provide reimbursement for relevant coursework or training.
4. Don’t just say, DO and be an example: Encourage your team to take breaks and prioritize self-care. Set realistic expectations and deadlines to promote a healthy work-life balance. Mirror what you want your team to be!
Try these ideas: Increase retention and motivation by creating a positive work culture for teams of any size.
Bonus Tip: Check your leadership inventory! Everyone may not be the problem; it may be you, and that’s okay if you’re willing to fine-tune. Spend some time evaluating your leadership skills and see if there are any areas you can improve.
Remember, what got you here may not get you there!
Ask yourself: Are you a leader that people want to work with?
Want to create a more positive work environment for your team?
Schedule a discovery call with Virtual Partners in Business. Let’s collaborate on building a culture where your team feels valued.
Reference:
- Seppala, E., & Cameron, K. (2015). Proof that positive work cultures are more productive. Harvard Business Review. Retrieved from hbr.org
