Lockton report highlights importance of culture and morale for employee productivity
The roles of culture and morale in the workplace are increasingly recognized for their influence on organizational effectiveness and company performance. Not only are these characteristics part of the foundation for successful companies, but they are also fundamental in creating happy, productive employees.
In his recent report, "Bring Out the Best in Your People," Dr. Charlie Cartwright of Lockton discusses the importance of positive culture and morale and how to create them in one's company. He points to a 2013 Gallup study that concluded only 30 percent of the workforce is engaged in their job, with the other 70 percent either not engaged or actively disengaged. Not only is low engagement bad for employee productivity, but it can also cost businesses a substantial amount of money in things like recruitment costs, training, overtime, and litigation.
Cartwright includes tips on how to bring out the best in employees and offers five key principles that create a culture of positivity and excitement in a company. In addition to being fair, warm, courteous, and trustworthy, he suggests supervisors maintain a consistent level of intensity when offering feedback. The balance of energy helps maintain a constructive, ongoing dialogue that can contribute greatly to employees' overall sense of value, commitment, and positive morale.
"When culture and morale are low in a company, employee performance stalls, their health suffers, productivity plummets, and worker's compensation claims jump significantly," said Cartwright. "The best way to avoid those outcomes is by focusing on good leadership and bringing out the best in employees."
According to Cartwright, the most common reason people quit their job is because of an unpleasant boss or supervisor. To avoid strained relationships, he suggests those who supervise others should invest in each and every employee by listening to thoughts, considering ideas, and providing meaningful opportunities for growth and development.
By aligning culture, business success, and employee morale, companies can be well on their way to a positive, successful environment.
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