Keeping The Troops Happy & Productive

If there’s one thing we know about being the owner of an SME in New Zealand, it’s that you are not just “the boss”. You’re also variously mother and father, confessor, disciplinarian, coach, mentor and confidant.

Employee stress and unhappiness can negatively impact productivity, team morale, and ultimately, the success of your business. As an SME owner, being able to detect signs of stress and unhappiness in your team is crucial for fostering a positive work environment.

Early signs of stress often manifest in subtle ways. You might notice changes in behaviour such as increased irritability, decreased productivity, or a drop in the quality of work. Frequent absenteeism or lateness may also indicate that something is wrong.

Team members may withdraw socially, avoiding interactions with colleagues or appearing disengaged in meetings. They may seem fatigued, distracted, or less enthusiastic about tasks they once enjoyed.

Addressing these issues requires a nuanced approach. Firstly, it is important to create an open and trusting work environment where employees feel comfortable sharing their concerns. This can be achieved through regular check-ins and open communication channels.

If you observe a team member showing signs of stress, have a private and empathetic conversation. Ask how they are feeling and if there are any particular challenges they are facing. Be patient and listen without rushing to conclusions.

Once a team member opens up, work together to identify practical ways to reduce stress. This might involve adjusting their workload, offering flexible work hours, or providing additional resources or training to help them feel more confident in their role.

Encourage breaks, promote work-life balance, and consider implementing mental health support initiatives, such as access to professional counselling services.

Demonstrating genuine concern for the well-being of your team helps build trust and resilience within your SME. By addressing stress and unhappiness proactively and compassionately, you can foster a supportive workplace where employees feel valued and motivated, ultimately contributing to the long-term success of your business.

If you’d like to discuss how to be truly effective in this, let’s talk. email john.luxton@regenerationhq.co.nz

phone +64 275 665 682

WhatsApp https://wa.me/64275665682

#happyteam #moreproductive #betterworkstories