Many business owners will ask themselves how they can encourage positivity and productivity amongst their workforce.

There are many positive steps you can take to create happy employees, starting right with the office environment.

Small changes can be made to energise the team and help you all make healthier choices. First and foremost ensure your staff have appropriate work stations, perform desk assessments to avoid repetitive strain and bad posture. You can then turn to the fuel your team are using to get through the day. This means maybe introducing a fruit bowl or treating staff to re-fillable water bottles.

Engaging your team is another essential step in bringing out the best in them. Convince them that there are opportunities to progress at work, and you’ll motivate them to work hard for you. Tell them you rely on their input and trust their judgement. People who are invested in a company, are committed to its success Give your team regular feedback and offer training if that’s what they need to get the job done. Most importantly take an interest in their personal lives, so you’re not just a boss cracking the whip!

Making sure your team feel appreciated is a must as a good boss. Remember to thank the staff who go the extra mile to get the job done well, everyone likes to feel valued. After all, if an employee doesn’t feel appreciated they’ll find employment elsewhere – and you don’t want to lose your best team members.

Another proven technique for making a team gel is spending time together outside of the office environment. This allows you to get to know each other on a more personal level improving relationships and revealing each other’s true personalities. To encourage this, why not create a social calendar of activities which appeals to everyone. It doesn’t need to be expensive. Bowling, mini golf or team-building games are all great options, but going to the pub after work doesn’t count!

Remember your team are your most valuable asset. Taking care of their wellbeing will mean you’ll reap the rewards further down the line. Walker Health and Safety Services can provide further advise on wellbeing should you need it, visit www.walkersafety.co.uk.