Employee productivity is an important concern for employers because it affects profit levels and staff retention rates. However, it ultimately reflects an organization’s culture and ability to motivate staff. An engaged employee understands and commits to a company and its goals. Engaged employees are intrinsically motivated by an organization’s culture, environment, and people, to be efficient and produce quality work. 

When used properly, these five methods can help increase employee productivity and create engaged employees.

Two smiling women having a conversation in the office with their laptop.
Two smiling women having a conversation in the office with their laptop.

1. let employees be accountable for their work

Employees with clear descriptions of their tasks and who know their deadlines will reduce the amount of time they would otherwise spend on inconsequential tasks. 

Employers need to set regular performance reviews with the employees to hold them accountable for their tasks, measure their progress, and address any questions or concerns. 

This is also the appropriate time to explain how their work ties into company goals and how it affects the big picture. This encourages employees to be actively engaged with the company.

2. recognize and reward

Recognizing and rewarding employees' efforts motivates them to continue delivering exceptional work. Being recognized provides employees with personal satisfaction in their work, while rewards offer an additional incentive to reach and exceed their goals.

Of course, deciding the best method to motivate employees depends on the employees themselves and the approach they would appreciate more. Building an equitable reward and recognition program would be an excellent first step.

3. create a positive environment

The workplace environment is vital in contributing to employee productivity. Creating a positive and open environment encourages employees to seek help proactively. Find out how to keep employees happy and productive in this article to achieve this mission!

This helps establish an organizational culture that fosters communication and camaraderie between employees. This can be done through regular social activities or even through collective volunteering efforts within the community.

4. provide opportunities for growth

It's important to offer courses and/or seminars that will add to the employee’s knowledge. This encourages new ideas, but also shows that the employer is willing to invest in the employee.

5. provide an optimal work environment

Nothing discourages employee productivity more than slow or outdated technology. Ensure employees have updated equipment to use, ideally, equipment that could improve productivity levels. 

For example, having wireless headsets available for frequent callers is better than having employees with neck tension caused by having receivers pressed up to their ears.

As the cliché goes, a happy employee is a productive employee. Happier employees are more likely to derive personal satisfaction from their jobs and actively pursue the company’s goals.

Would you like more information about increasing employee productivity and understanding the impact of your strategic recruitment decisions? Read our articles on employee productivity in the workplace. 

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