I think we can all agree that 2020 was an absolute shit-show. From not being able to find toilet paper because that jackass down the road decided to stockpile it to last until 2052 and global lockdowns that resulted in us baking more bread than The Pioneer Woman herself, none of us knew what was going on or when it was going to end. I started lockdown looking like a Disney princess and came out of it looking more like the troll that lives under the bridge and demands an answer to a riddle before allowing anyone to cross. We have all learnt how to adapt to survive and businesses have learnt this the most. 2021 is here and with it the promise of better days; here are 5 great ways to give your staff a much-needed morale boost.
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Be Flexible
Your employees aren’t your children; you shouldn’t need to constantly remind them to do their work. Be flexible with their work schedules, as long as they are meeting their targets and deadlines you can adapt the rules to accommodate their new schedules. With the kids being home from school, husbands who can’t find socks and pets who chew the things we need, life is a little crazy working from home. Your staff will appreciate the leniency.Â
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Celebrate Accomplishments
So many companies have seen substantial drops in revenue since last year and far fewer sales, your employees feel the pressure that comes with these struggles too. It is so important for company leaders to recognize achievements and accomplishments when they happen. I know that most businesses are just trying to stay afloat in these crazy times but giving your staff the recognition they deserve should go without saying.
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Team Building Activities
All work and no play is never the answer. You might be feeling the economic pandemic pinch but it is vital to boost morale and moods all round with team building activities. Virtual team games are a great way to get your employees to bond whilst staying safe and adhering to social distancing protocols.Â
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Offer Wellness Resources
To stop your employees from burning out during these chaotic times, make sure they have proper access to wellness resources. Your employees’ mental health should be of the utmost importance to you in 2021, make sure they can acquire mental health assistance if they need it. Stress, tension and pressure are all massive contributors to depression and depressed employees won’t be very happy or productive. Much like the voice of your customer is important, the voice of your employee is equally important.
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Adjust Your Healthcare Benefits
As cases of COVID-19 continue to spread exponentially and news of fatalities dominates the news and media, your employees need to have adequate access to healthcare if they need it. Your employees need to remain productive and optimistic during the workweek; this won’t happen if they are constantly consumed by thoughts of illness. You need to make sure that your employees can gain support if they are affected by this virus or any other health complication. Your employees are your biggest asset – if you look after them then they will look after you.