How employers can improve employee policies: the 7-step plan
By taking a holistic approach to employee satisfaction and appreciation, not only can you improve employee engagement, but you can also transform and future-proof your business.
1. Create a mentality shift
One of the biggest challenges to implementing change is securing support and a willingness to help make it happen. An open-minded, proactive mentality across management provides the foundation for a successful employee engagement strategy.
2. Ensure a correct (and prompt) payroll process
Employees expect their employer to meet certain minimum standards. One such standard: a prompt and accurate payroll process. Late payments, complicated processes to get paid, and incomplete payments can frustrate employees and lead to their resignation.
By making sure employee payroll is taken care of correctly every payment period, you'll provide the sense of financial certainty and predictability that all employees want from their employer.
3. Create an open employee–company feedback loop
Do you want to make your employees feel valued? Give them communication channels that allow their voice to be truly heard.
Better yet, make these channels a central element in the way your company operates. That way, you can tap into a massive idea pool from your workforce — an overlooked asset in the traditional top-down hierarchical business structure. This type of open feedback loop can be a win-win outcome.
4. Operate a flexible working environment
You can also boost employee engagement by integrating flexibility into the workplace. One way to do this is by accounting for different types of people and preferences in your workforce. For instance, depending on a person's chronotype, they may be more productive in the morning, afternoon, or evening.
Flexibility can come in the form of non-rigid working schedules, flexible and unlimited vacation time, and the choice of work-from-home versus in-office time where possible.
5. Provide ongoing training
Training isn't an add-on anymore — it's a crucial element in keeping staff turnover down. By investing in your learning and development function to create a constant upskilling and educational working environment, you can reap the rewards of a more capable and engaged workforce.
6. Get the work environment right
Employee wellness and health is another crucial prerequisite for employee satisfaction. Strong ergonomics — the design of the workplace to aid comfort and prevent injury — is key. Moreover, plenty of natural light, clean air and water, clean sanitation services, and elements like a working kitchen and a common area to relax are all essential to creating a positive workplace with satisfied employees.
7. Consider switching from a vertical to horizontal hierarchy
A vertical hierarchy can provide clear lines of authority and easy-to-understand tasks from upper management. However, it can also diminish employee autonomy.
In contrast, a horizontal hierarchy can give each employee a high degree of control over their own role and their sense of achievement. While switching from a more traditional vertical structure to a horizontal approach is a big decision, it can be an incredibly effective way to skyrocket employee satisfaction.
