Many things have to be done right if you want your office to run smoothly, efficiently and in a nice atmosphere; rewards and privileges are important to motivate your employees and help them build a strong relationship with the company, a relationship built on trust and loyalty, but some ground rules are also essential. However, they have to be well-thought and not too strict. Owners, bosses and managers should bear in mind that they deal with grown-ups and most of them will treat your right and fair if you do the same in the first place. So don’t fall into the trap of wanting to control everything – it’s not possible. Give your employees some credit and avoid office rules that can turn them away, such as:
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No phones allowed
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People don’t like to be forbidden to do something. Of course, it’s important to reduce the time they spend on their phones, but banning smartphones all the way will only make employees angry. As long as it doesn’t affect their performance, you shouldn’t have a problem with that. Especially when you consider the many benefits that come with a phone or, to be more precise, with applications that can actually contribute to a better outcome. With Faxburner app you will be able to eliminate the waste of time spent with an annoying fax machine; Calendly can help your company manage all appointments while Slack enables the workers to communicate, also while they’re away from their computers. Don’t see problems – see opportunities.
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No rewards
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Many employers don’t believe in rewards programs because they think it introduces unnecessary rivalry and inequality among workers. However, you should take into consideration that some employees may be more efficient, show more initiative or simply be better-organised if they know they are being recognised. Rewarding them can actually motivate others to work better. Otherwise, you may lose a great employee who will leave to find a place where they will be appreciated. Why would one make any effort if there’s no chance of a reward, a raise or a promotion?
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Ridiculously low wages
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If you hire a good worker with real talent, they will eventually realise their value to the company. If they’re underpaid, they will know that as well. People are sensitive about exploitation and their rights these days – and rightly so. If you can’t afford a reasonable salary, maybe you shouldn’t hire anyone just yet, especially when it comes to educated specialists. If you have the money, don’t skimp it on employees. Great talent can contribute to your company’s success and to your profit in a significant way. Be able to appreciate it.
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Asking for proof of day-off excuses
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Of course, if it’s something sudden, workers should always explain to their supervisors what happened, but the latter should stay reasonably understanding, especially when it’s about people who have been working for you for a long time. It may be hard to believe, but there still are managers who ask for proof of death when an employee wants a day-off to go for a funeral. That’s out of line and most workers won’t return to work after such a situation.
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No respect for working processes
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Everyone works differently and you can be sure that most of your employees already know what works for them best. Some prefer to multitask, while others have to focus on one thing only; there are those who don’t mind hearing conversations and traffic noises from outside, but you should also be considerate towards those who want complete silence or only their music. It’s not wise to tell your workers to avoid listening to music. Studies show that it can actually be highly beneficial for their concentration and overall performance. Some people need several shorter breaks while others will do better with one long break. If you see that the results are satisfying, don’t interfere.
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Dressing always formal
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It’s obvious that you have to require your employees to maintain a certain level of hygiene, but there’s really no need to force them to wear suits at all times when they don’t meet with customers and investors on a daily basis. If all your employees do limits to their desks or rooms where they only socialize with other workers, you shouldn’t mind allowing them to dress more casually. If they feel better and more comfortable, it will contribute to their effectiveness and performance. Isn’t that more important than pleasing your eye? There really are a lot of great talents who are ready to turn down a job offer only because of the wardrobe policy.
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The company is really as good as its employees. You won’t succeed if you don’t create a good working environment for your workers. Treat them like adults, let them know that they have your trust and they will repay you with their great input, honest work and loyalty.
