In order for a company to be successful, its employees must be productive. When business owners and leaders create work environments where productivity can thrive, operations become more efficient, employees are happier, and sales increase. Below we will discuss six ways to increase productivity in the workplace.
Encourage employees to tackle their most challenging tasks in the morning
There are several advantages to completing the hardest projects at the beginning of the workday. For one thing, you and your staff will be fresh and free of the work-related stress that often accumulates throughout the day. Accomplishing something important in the morning also sets a positive tone for the rest of the day. You can encourage your employees to do the hardest tasks first by holding morning meetings that establish the day’s priorities.
Create an inviting communal break room
Not only do employees need a place to take breaks throughout the day, but they will also benefit from establishing personal relationships with their colleagues. By providing a welcoming and comfortable communal break room, you will encourage your employees to unwind and connect on a human level. Comfortable furniture, ample space, and warm colors will all help create the type of atmosphere you’re looking for.
Eliminate useless meetings
Data shows that the average executive spends 23 hours a week in meetings- about half of their workweek. This is time that they could have used in a much more productive fashion. While the occasional meeting is certainly necessary, you should try to make them as efficient as possible. Keep meetings short and sweet, only request the attendance of people who really have to be there, and avoid meetings altogether when an email will suffice.
Provide better employee training
Never underestimate the importance of adequate employee training. While it’s tempting to rush new hires into their roles as quickly as possible, the extra time spent on training will pay for itself by making the employees much more productive. A well-trained employee will make fewer mistakes, feel more confident, and stay with the company for longer.
Be flexible when it comes to schedules
It’s important for business leaders to keep in mind that not everyone operates by the same internal clock. Some employees are most productive when they stay focused on a single task for hours at a time, while others work better with regular breaks and lots of multitasking. By giving employees flexible working hours, you allow everyone to optimize their own efficiency according to their personal preferences.
Reduce distractions
It’s hard to get work done in an environment that’s full of distractions. One of the most common workplace distractions is a constantly ringing phone. Many small businesses don’t employ a full-time receptionist, so it’s up to the staff to take turns handling calls. Pausing to answer the phone can add up to many hours of lost productivity and cost your business thousands of dollars. Partnering with a
answering service is an easy, cost-efficient way to free you and your employees up to complete more important tasks.
