Many of us suffer from post-Christmas blues.
But what can we do to kick-start 2019 and look forward to a prosperous and productive year?
Jaime Johnson, Director of employee research consultancy, The Survey Initiative, believes there is a lot that employers can do to give staff a New Year lift.
Blues in the boardroom
Every year the New Year sees an upsurge in the recruitment market, as people look for a fresh start or promotion. Place the retention and recruitment issue firmly on the boardroom table to ensure you keep and attract top talent to your workplace.
Company health check
Show your staff you’re invested in them by undertaking a survey to find out what they would like for the year ahead, from their role and the company. What would make them happier? How can you help? By listening to staff you engage with them in a positive way, making them feel supported and valued.
Let’s get physical
It’s been scientifically proven that exercise releases endorphins in your body which makes us feel happy. Make a New Year resolution to increase take-up of your company’s cycle or walk to work schemes, encourage gym membership and hold workplace yoga sessions to boost wellbeing.
Creating workplaces that work
Reorganise the workplace and give it a makeover with fresh colour schemes and greenery. Bright interiors and plants have been found to increase productivity and induce a sense of wellbeing and it’s a low-cost solution.
Have something to look forward to
We all like to book a holiday in January to give ourselves something to look forward to. Business leaders would be wise to do the same and give employees a boost by organising an away day, company party or a team night out etc. Here you could run a poll to find out what your staff would like to do, which will ensure your treat will be very well-received.
Incentivise
Why not choose the New Year to announce your latest staff incentive scheme? Perhaps you could give an additional day off for birthdays? Or awards for employees who go the extra mile?
For more ideas about employee engagement, visit www.surveyinitiative.co.uk
About the author
Jaime founded The Survey Initiative in 2006 following a career in employee research. She heads up the data analysis team and is dedicated to creating employee research solutions that deliver real results.
