When it comes to employee happiness, sometimes the things that come to mind cost money: increased salary, bonuses, paid lunches, birthday gifts, paid company outings, etc. But there are non-monetary ways to keep employees happy as well.
Below we’re going over five ideas to implement to increase employee happiness in your company. Try these non-monetary suggestions to create happiness, loyalty, and trust among your employees.
Here are five non-monetary ways to keep employees happy:
1. Offer flexible schedules.
Flexible schedules allow employees to choose their own schedule and work when it’s best for them. This allows employees to capitalize on their most productive hours and take care of personal matters when needed. If it doesn’t work for your company to let employees work at any hour of the day, parameters can be set while still giving employees some control.
Discover a better way to recruit remote talent
Founded in 2007, FlexJobs is the most experienced remote & hybrid hiring platform.
- Unlimited job posts
- Low, flat membership fee
- Access top-level remote advice
- Unlimited resume searches
- Reach the right candidates
- And so much more!
Flexible schedules make for happier, more productive, and less stressed employees. Flexible schedules can let parents pick their children up from school, attend doctor appointments without needing to take time off, and run errands that can only be completed during the day. Less stress will lead to more loyal employees.
2. Encourage exploration.
Offering promotion opportunities, professional development, and career exploration can keep employees happy. If possible, encourage employees to use their skills in other departments or try on other roles for size. Employees need to feel like there is room for growth and need to know their career path options within your organization. Check in regularly to discuss career goals with employees, and look into professional development opportunities to help employees learn and grow.
3. Offer remote work options.
The novel thing about letting employees work from home is that it actually saves employers money. Having less employees in an office space means lower heating and lighting bills and less office supplies used. Remote workers have been found to be more productive as well. Without a commute, there’s the ability to get started on the workday sooner. Without the distractions of the office, it can be easier to focus and get work done. Remote workers take less sick time and are more committed to their employer.
4. Provide recognition
Providing praise and recognition is a great non-monetary way to keep employees happy. Pay attention to your workers’ successes big and small, and recognize them in ways that they’ll appreciate. Some employees may love a company-wide email or verbal praise at a team meeting. Other employees may feel embarrassed by that attention and would rather receive an email sent directly to them or have a private conversation instead. Either way, appreciating your employees’ accomplishments is an excellent way to create happiness and loyalty.
5. Encourage time off.
According to research, 55% of American workers left vacation days unused in 2015. With sick days, personal time, and vacation days likely worked into the budget and salary of each employee, encouraging the use of time off shouldn’t cost the company any extra money. Taking a break is important for workers in any industry. It’s a time to rest, relax, and recharge. As their manager, lead by example and take time off yourself. Be sure to verbally encourage your employees to take vacations or even take an afternoon off to attend their child’s play. Happier employees will be your reward.
Photo Credit: bigstockphoto.com
Don't forget to share this article with colleagues!
