Many of us spend most of our waking hours at work. Our job plays a crucial role in our overall level of wellbeing. It is well known that Millennials, who make up the majority of today’s workforce, seek jobs that make them feel fulfilled. They crave a positive and inspiring work environment. They will not stay if they don’t feel they belong. 

Data shows that, whilst today’s 65-year-olds had an average of 4.4 jobs during their working life, 35-year-olds already had 5.9 jobs since their entry into the labour market, according to Malta’s public employment service Jobsplus.


“A strong economic growth coupled with increased employment opportunities, as well as an enhanced knowledge on changing work patterns have led to a need for employment services and employers to shift their focus on investment in human capital,” according to Jobsplus that partnered with us to bring you this tip.  

Now more than ever, employers are investing in creating a positive work culture that attracts and retains the right talent. Here’s how to ensure your company keeps up with this trend. 

 

Empowerment

People want to feel that their views matter at work. “Complementary to the importance social media has gained in the past years, where users have the liberty to express themselves, workplaces are to ensure that employees are given the opportunity to participate in decision-making by bringing forward their ideas,” according to Jobsplus.

Employers must recognise that employees are key players in today’s work framework. Besides, employers have a lot to gain by encouraging free-flowing ideas. 

 

Engagement 

Gone are the days when employees were happy with just having “a job”. Today that job is more than just a means to a salary. People want to work towards something they believe in, something they’re passionate about. They want to feel their job is contributing to the organisation they work for. That is why it’s important to provide clear job roles that outline how each employee’s role contributes to the overall purpose of the company. 

Involving employees in setting achievable goals is proven to result in a more successful outcome. The next step is to invest in helping them achieve those goals. This, Jobsplus says, may mean providing mentorship or investing in training and upskilling.

 

Creativity 

Nothing can bring about a resignation faster than a stagnant, uninspiring workplace. Creativity breathes excitement and passion. It stirs the imagination. So it’s important to create spaces that encourage it. 

This can be as simple as organising weekly brainstorms about projects or processes. It’s equally important to cultivate a culture and environment where people feel they can share any idea, without the fear of being ridiculed or judged. 

Bonus tips: Creative brainstorming can easily go off at a tangent. Ensure there is an element of structure so as not to forgo productivity. This means having someone assigned to steer the session back on track to ensure a productive outcome.

 

Flexibility

Flexibility can make all the difference. Not feeling like you have to clock in and out of work, military style, helps people feel trusted and understood.   There are many options of flexible working to consider, depending on the nature of the business.

You could allow people to start their day anytime between 7am and 9am and end their day accordingly. Or, you could encourage remote working. 

 

Communication 

Employees should not have to wait for the annual performance review to get their manager’s feedback or to voice thoughts and concerns. Holding regular informal catch-up meetings and having a HR team with an open-door policy help foster a healthy communication flow. 

Communication also goes beyond one-on-one meetings. Ensuring that everyone is kept informed about what’s going on - like major news and projects -  helps people feel part of the team.  

Bonus tip: Communicate the good news by celebrating successes to help the team feel motivated and to encourage creative thinking. 

 

Wellness 

A heathy workplace culture is one that focuses on, well, people’s health - both physical and psychological. From simple things, like providing healthy snacks, to encouraging people to use their vacation leave. Then there are the “big things” like health care benefits and gym memberships. One thing to keep in mind is that work can be stressful and this can impact mental wellbeing. So cater for this by having mental health policies in place.

Bonus tip: Creating a safe environment is part of ensuring employee wellbeing. So make sure your office adheres to health and safety standards. Implement policies that support a safe work environment by eliminating negative personalities.

 

 

As the saying goes, you are as good as your people. So make the right recruitment choices with the help of Employment Agencies listed on Yellow. Then get professional advice to ensure you retain good employees and provide a supportive work environment by reaching out to Human Resources Consultants.

Discover local  - www.yellow.com.mt