A productive business is much more likely to find success than one that is inefficient. This will see more tasks being completed in a quick fashion, less absences on the floor, and better involvement from employees. But these factors can be difficult to come by if your business is lacking fair working conditions.
Employees are less likely to get tasks completed effectively if they feel undervalued, badly treated, or invisible to their bosses. Although many might have the mindset of getting the work done is enough, but there is a human need to be appreciated and respected at work. This is one reason why it is essential to pay attention to the working conditions of your business, and this post has explained three more below.
Improves Engagement and Productivity
The performance of workers is greatly affected by the working environment they are in. Although the term “work environment” sounds purely physical, it can also be the emotional aspects of the workplace. This means it will include factors like benefits, office politics, and safety regulations as well as the office layout and amenities. All of these aspects can impact the efficiency of workers, either positively or negatively.
According to a study conducted by the University of Warwick, a more contented workforce has been proven to be 12% more productive than average, while unhappy employees were found to be 10% less productive. The increase in productivity can be accomplished through better working conditions, such as providing relevant training opportunities to develop workers’ skills. This will not only improve how effectively work is completed, but it will also allow employees to undergo professional development.
Professional development is a sure-fire method to enhance employee engagement as it allows them to better themselves, not just for the business’ gain. Unsurprisingly, with the prospect of career growth, the workforce will complete tasks in a more efficient and timely manner, and they will be happier to do so.
Benefits Well-Being
Where an individual works will have an impact on their physical and mental health. This can occur due to poor air health, unpleasant temperatures, and working long hours, but it can also be the result of workplace stress. These factors can eventually take leave from work as they have become unwell or stressed due to their working conditions. Obviously, this would then have an effect on productivity.
Employees who do not feel like their well-being is protected could seek the assistance of labour unions. These organizations, like Teamsters Calgary Labour Union, allow workers to negotiate the rules and regulations of their workplaces with employers. The aim is to create a happier workplace and gain better job satisfaction. When it comes to the health and well-being of workers, the chances of union involvement are even more likely, so it is best to alter the working conditions for the benefit of employees.
Businesses should endeavour to improve their work environments if employee absences begin to rise or productivity dips. As well as making the office or workplace more comfortable, employers should support work-life balance to avoid burnout and boost communication and relationships. This will ensure workers have time away from work, but they also feel a sense of belonging during shifts.
Increases Creativity and Innovation
As previously mentioned, the relationships built in the workplace can have an impact on the productivity of the business. While these relationships might only be “work friendships,” they still serve a purpose. Employees who feel lonely or lack those friendships might not engage with their work or collaborate with their peers. Studies have actually found that “the lonelier employees were, the lower the performance ratings they received.”
This can be avoided by improving the emotional culture in the department or overall business. By fostering a kinder culture, this can reduce the isolation some workers feel and encourage them to form connections. The business will benefit from this change in working conditions through the collaboration opportunities. Workers who collaborate with other departments or even other people in their sector will develop new and creative ideas that the business could utilize.
As outlined throughout this post, there is a clear link between the working conditions and productivity of a business. Employers should go out of their way to improve the working conditions to ensure their workers are engaged, well, and contributing to the running of the business, all of which boosts productivity.
