In recent years, the world of work is almost unrecognisable compared to how it was even only 5 years ago. However, with so many people working flexibly or from home, the question needs to be posed, how do you measure productivity?
Workforce productivity can be measured in terms of an employee's output over a specific time period. Typically, a worker's productivity will be measured in comparison to the average for employees doing similar work. Employee productivity is an important consideration for businesses because it contributes significantly to the success of any organisation.
Many factors influence workforce productivity, which can have an impact on your business. Employee morale, work environment, work culture, training and development, processes, pay and benefits, and employee wellbeing are just a few examples.
Many deeply hierarchical organisations have no idea what is affecting their own workforce productivity and are not immediately concerned about it, but they should be because, as Richard Branson says, happy employees equal happy customers.
How can you improve your workplace productivity?
Employee productivity is critical to the success of your company. Because your employees are the lifeblood of your business, it makes sense to invest time and money in various components that help increase their productivity.
Here are our top 4 secrets on how to improve workplace productivity:
1. Make sure your employees are well rewarded, acknowledged and appreciated
Nobody likes being overworked, underappreciated, and unrewarded. It is critical that your employees believe that when they perform well, they are recognised, rewarded, and appreciated.
Your employees have bills to pay, children to care for, and goals to achieve, and the monetary benefits are clearly one of the reasons they chose to work for your company.
Use this as a motivational tool by explaining how your pay structure works and what factors you consider when deciding whether an employee deserves a promotion or raise and be true to your word.
Give everyone equal opportunities, regardless of culture, religion, ethnicity, gender, or sexual orientation, and this will reflect on employee satisfaction and productivity. Furthermore, with such a diverse pool of talent within your company, you'll have access to a broader range of skills, which can lead to significant increases in profits.
2. Ensure there is a healthy work culture
Creating a wellness programme, providing healthy food options in the office canteen or vending machines, and encouraging your employees to prioritise their well-being all contribute to a healthy and happy workforce, which can significantly increase employee productivity.
Another thing your company can do to boost employee productivity is to encourage employees to live healthier lifestyles and to have flexible working policies. This can be accomplished by scheduling time for exercise during the workday, as well as time for meditation and/or going outside for some fresh air to clear the mind and improve creativity.
3. Offer training and development opportunities
Every employee wants to advance in their career, so it's critical that they believe their employer is committed to their professional development and provides them with relevant training opportunities throughout their time with the company.
Ensure that each team member has the opportunity to advance within the company hierarchy and is not stuck in the same position for an extended period of time.
4. Ensure your systems run smoothly and operate properly
Technology has evolved into a necessary component of the modern workplace. Companies that use modern technology are more profitable because it helps employees with their tasks, especially when the job involves technical aspects.
Providing the proper tools and equipment to your employees has a direct impact on workplace productivity. Untrained employees may cause delays and resource mismanagement, which could cost the company money.
The bottom line
Without a strong, productive team that feels engaged every day they walk into the office, your company won't be able to go far, and meeting all of your established goals will be much more difficult. As a result, whether you are a business owner or an HR professional, you must ensure that your employees are engaged and have everything they need to produce the best results possible.