As the world strives to improve mental health at work, more and more small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are finding ways to increase the happiness of their employees.
Just as happy customers are loyal, happy employees are more productive in their day-to-day tasks. A recent study from the University of Warwick shows that offering free snacks and drinks to employees during working hours is a good idea increased their productivity by 12%. In addition, the tech giant Google observed a 37% increase in employee satisfaction after investments in tools on the shop floor.
Happy employees are not only more productive, they also take pride in being part of a company that cares about them. Raising morale creates a company culture of excellence, where employees choose to live up to the company name and work hard to achieve common goals. SMB owners are wise to invest in their staff, not only because it makes their lives easier, but also because employees are the key to a company’s success.
How can SMEs increase the productivity and satisfaction of their employees?
The benefits of employee engagement and productivity are obvious. However, following a recent decline in employee engagement in the 36% in 2020 With 34% in 2021, SMB owners are constantly looking for ways to improve job performance and leverage their greatest asset: labor.
- clear expectations
An unclear vision of the company and cloudy expectations will leave employees more confused than productive. To increase employee productivity, SMB managers need to be aware of their communication skills and ensure that employees fully understand their roles and responsibilities. Expressing the company’s goals and expectations will encourage employees to work towards a common vision. However, bosses need to set expectations realistic based on each employee’s individual capability, as targets beyond their reach can negatively impact productivity. In addition to clearly assigning duties, SMB owners must create a culture where employees feel safe to voice any concerns or uncertainties.
- Appropriate training and development
Employees feel good when they receive training and development. Studies show that 89% of employees agree that learning new things at work makes them more engaged, happier and more efficient. In addition, proper training can improve employee retention 94% of participants in a recent survey said they would stay longer with a company that invests in employee development. Training can be provided through courses, self-study materials, or even a mentoring program. Employees will build on their existing strengths and gain new skills, making them even more valuable.
- Have an innovative team
One way to become a happy company is to install secure computer systems that prevent cyber-attacks. Taking into account that 87% Of the security executives who have experienced at least one firmware attack in the past two years, protecting employees from cyberattacks should be a top priority for SMB bosses. Microsoft is working closely with vendors to create new Secure Core PCs that provide deeply integrated hardware, firmware, and software to enhance device, identity, and data security.
With regular firmware updates and protection against physical attacks, secure core computers help protect against advanced attacks and information remains safe on the device even if malware is installed. Sensitive data, such as financial information and medical records, is kept secure, keeping employees protected and productive with no downtime.
- efficient technology
Technology must be optimized to work with users, not against them. Old and outdated desktops are frustrating and reduce employee productivity, so it’s good for SMB owners to provide and install up-to-date technology that streamlines work processes. Windows 11 Pro works in conjunction with cloud-based programs such as windows autopilot, simplifying work processes through application management and improving remote collaboration processes. Employees have secure access to critical work apps and remotely enforced work policies, increasing productivity and reducing the risk of cyber-attacks.
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Artificial intelligence is changing the way we live and work. Intelligent AI algorithms are trained to automate tedious tasks, giving employees more time to focus on complex tasks. Recent studies show that a third of consumers were generally positive about AI taking over tedious tasks, up from 19% in 2019. Given that millennials are twice as likely as baby boomers to embrace AI technology, we can expect AI adoption to increase over the next few years will grow.
Microsoft 365 Copilot is a new productivity tool designed to improve workplace efficiency. The integrated system assists users with repetitive tasks such as summarizing communication threads and deleting old emails. In addition, Copilot in Teams summarizes key points of discussion and highlights areas where colleagues agree or disagree. The first answer indicates that 88% of developers are more productive using Copilot, while 77% say they spend less time searching for information. And because Copilot integrates with Microsoft 365, it automatically applies out-of-the-box security and privacy protection processes, such as two-factor authentication.
- Positive hybrid work environment
As the world adjusts to a post-pandemic way of life, more and more companies are encouraging their employees to work from home. Hybrid work is here to stay. SME managers should therefore strive to create a positive working environment, both in person and online. Remote work capabilities reduce stressful commutes and provide the flexibility to get the best work done anywhere. To lend a hand, Windows 11 Pro brings the latest remote desktop options like file sharing, productivity apps, and smarter video conferencing, making the home office experience even more enjoyable.
- Communication and cooperation
There is no collaboration without communication. But what is the difference between the two?
Communication is critical to the success of any template and can take many forms. To run a productive business, all team members must master the art of effective communication to share information effectively. One-way advertisements, two-way conversations and online discussions are examples of communication.
Collaboration involves two-way communication and describes two or more people coming together to create something. In a business environment, this could be two teams working on a project or coming up with a proposal or product pitch. Action transforms communication into collaboration.
Connecting with a colleague to discuss a project is communication, while collaborating on files is collaboration. Workplace computer systems should encourage seamless communication and collaboration and provide employees with a safe space to brainstorm and discuss various projects. With Microsoft Teams for meetings, cloud storage for files, and shared documents for collaborative viewing and collaboration, Microsoft 365 provides the ultimate integrated system for communication-savvy businesses.
- praise and benefits
Negative feedback is part of working life, but the way it is conveyed makes all the difference. Hostile and critical comments demotivate employees and cause high turnover. Giving sensitive constructive criticism and working together to set goals or milestones encourages employees and helps them feel valued. Studies show that employees receive that recognition in the workplace 14% more productive than those who do not receive it. Along with competitive pay and other benefits, recognizing and rewarding good performance will increase employee retention by approx 3%saving companies millions on recruitment and training costs.
Recognition in the workplace does not have to be hierarchical. The sense of personal satisfaction that comes from peer recognition can be even more effective than that of senior management. Recognition from colleagues may seem more sincerely and less interested in a performance review, reminding employees that they are part of a team that cares about them.
Increase workplace productivity with collaboration tools and software
Companies that support hybrid working need to ensure that their team is equipped to perform their daily tasks from anywhere. This will boost employee productivity and prevent their disconnection. “Devices should be designed to improve concentration and allow users to organize apps for quick and easy navigation. Plus, app bundling provides a more flexible hybrid experience because employees can access the apps of their choice when they need them. Pre-configured layouts that automatically adjust to screen size allow users to keep multiple applications open on the same screen,” said Acer, a leader in the technology market and a strong portfolio of computing devices.
“When choosing hybrid work arrangements, SME managers must consider employees with different abilities and work styles. Considering the needs of employees when installing computer systems will improve workplace productivity and create an inclusive experience for all,” added Acer.
Windows 11 Pro offers a collaboration feature that works seamlessly with Microsoft 365, including Microsoft Teams. The intelligent system eliminates background blur interruptions and enhanced noise reduction features. Users can mute and unmute the microphone from the toolbar to avoid those embarrassing “you’re muted!” moments. In addition, the intelligent system makes it possible to instantly share the screen of any application or taskbar during online meetings. In fact, 81% of SMBs surveyed say Windows 11 Pro has improved employee efficiency and effectiveness.