Keeping staff happy, healthy, and engaged, is important for any business – for retention rates, company moral, and so much more. Happier people tend to be more productive, creative, and accurate. So, what can you do to boost happiness in your workplace?

Here we look at some easy and effective ways to maintain happiness in the workplace.

Create a culture of recognition.

When employees feel appreciated and their work and commitment are recognised and rewarded, they are more likely to feel wellbeing and satisfaction at work. According to a recent survey, employees are 2.7 times more likely to be highly engaged if they believe they will be recognised for their contributions. Regular appraisals and catch ups to acknowledge good work or particular achievements are a good place to start.

Offer team perks.

Staff perks are often expected nowadays, and usually form part of your employee package. Not only are perks important to aid in the recruitment process and set your business apart in a competitive market, but they can keep current employees happy and valued a work.  There are many providers that companies can use to give staff access to unique benefits such as discounted healthcare services, and cost-saving discounts and offers.

Encourage employees to take a break

Less than 40% of adults took their annual leave allowance in 2022, which is a huge amount of people forgoing the break away from work that is so needed to reset and refocus. Personal time away from work is essential in boosting overall wellbeing.

According to the Mentally Healthy Workplace Alliance, the benefits of employees taking their annual leave include reduced stress, lower risks of anxiety and depression, and improved mood – all of which result in happier employees. Happiness is also proven to make people healthier, therefore lowering the likelihood of sick days or absence from work.

Taking allocated breaks during the working day is also important. It’s too common for employees to stay at their desks and not take their full lunchtime or break entitlements. Staff should be encouraged to make use of their breaks and for a large proportion of workers – take essential time away from their screens.

Run socials to promote workplace culture

Holding internal events or activities occasionally are a good idea to engage with your staff and encourage relationship building. Social events, raffles or competitions for example are good ways to engage with the wider team.

Offer a dress down day or dress-up day for special occasions

Having a dress down day or a fancy-dress day can be a good away to boost staff moral and bring some flexibility into the workplace. Everyone likes a bit of fun to raise money for charity or recognise a special occasion, such as the recent coronation.  And of course, staff can opt-in or out, but it’s good to recognise than some staff would enjoy the opportunity to get involved.

Keeping staff wellbeing in mind, can play a big role in reducing burnout and supporting staff through what are currently especially challenging times. At HARP, we actively support wellbeing at work. Our combined knowledge and experience in people management have enabled us to design and develop simple, affordable, and powerful HR solutions for UK SMEs. You can find our more information here.