The pandemic has brought with it new opportunities, as well as new challenges, when it comes to work. A great many employees feel a strong sense of anxiety thanks to all the changes that have come about. It’s imperative that managers take steps to boost employee engagement to keep morale and productivity high. Try these ideas to help employees keep their spirits up in and out of work mode.
- Increase flexibility
Flexible working hours are a common staple for many remote working jobs, but it’s something to take seriously when you’re looking for more ways to keep your workers content.
Some employees often have other commitments that make it difficult to start at a specific time. For example, they may have to take care of children or sick relatives. If employees inform you that they need to adjust their working hours, let them know that it’s alright to move at their own pace, at least to a point. It takes a load off your workers’ minds if they have a little more freedom to handle their personal affairs before heading to work. Another thing to remember is to let staff know they don’t have to be glued to their desks all day, as in an office. Let them know they also have the option to be more flexible with their day, like taking long lunches or squeezing in some light exercise.
- Offer opportunities that promote positive well-being
Verbal support is always helpful, but it’s also a good idea to go the extra mile. Any activities that promote mindfulness and wellness can go a long way toward fighting employee burnout and keeping your team motivated.
Try out some virtual sessions (pilates and yoga are promising ideas) to improve the physical and mental well-being of your employees. Exercise is a great way to keep yourselves balanced, and it’s something you can do together to bond. You can also try other, non-virtual ideas if circumstances allow. Trying out Oshawa therapeutic massage is another beneficial activity you can try with your employees to deal with your worries and improve your camaraderie.
- Organize fun virtual events
Events are one way to bond with your employees outside of a work-related setting. Zoom quizzes were the go-to activity for many businesses, but there are other activities you can try out to spice up your off-hours.
Try looking into virtual private concerts, to name one example. You and your employees can listen to some great music to fit your established theme. It’s also a good chance to discover some great new musical talent you might have otherwise missed. Concerts also work for introverts and extroverts. Your quieter employees can sit back and enjoy the music, while the more chatty members of your team can chat with the artists.
- Revisit healthcare options
The outbreak is still a reality for many workers, and many are asking the question of how they and their loved ones can maintain their health. Some of them may be caring for children or elderly relatives, and their health is a serious concern for those employees.
For company leaders, now may be a good time to revisit existing healthcare programs and look into new measures you can take to protect your employees. Consider providing employees access to a Windsor psychotherapist as part of their healthcare plan to keep their spirits up. While you’re at it, consider offering virtual appointments with healthcare professionals to give your workers some support. Giving your workers a safety net for their health is a great way to alleviate some of their worries and keep them optimistic moving forward.
Keeping your employees’ morale high is always a major concern, but it’s more important than ever. With so much uncertainty, it helps to give your workers some additional consideration to keep their spirits up. Not only is it a great way to keep your teams productive, it also helps them stay positive and motivated, which is always a welcome for any workforce.