Productive Workplace – How To Build One In The New Normal | #hrmanagement #hrexecutive

A productive workplace is the mainstay of a successful company. The pandemic has redefined workplaces as the hybrid model becomes a norm. But HR managers need to make sure that employees give their best, whether they operate from the company office or home. It may sound overwhelming to you as an HR professional. But the good thing is that securing productivity across physical and digital setups is pretty much the same. Building productive workplaces requires some core elements, regardless of the location of employees. You will probably know them if you are an HR professional. But let us list them from the perspective of the new normal. 

Employee well-being

Not surprisingly, employee well-being is on top of the productivity checklist right now. You cannot expect people to give their best if they are apprehensive and stressed out. Give them the assurance of physical, financial, and emotional well-being, and they will ace productivity. HR managers should go the extra mile with safety in the office and creating a stress-free environment for WFH employees. The mindset fosters loyalty and boosts retention as well.

Communication

If you want to build a truly productive workplace, empower your team with seamless communication. Employees need to connect and collaborate to perform. But it is a challenge in the era of social distancing, even for those working in the same office. Invest in advanced communication tools and best practices to ensure that people are always connected. It is equally vital to ensure good communication with clients and vendors.

Technology

Technology is the cornerstone of a productive workforce in the new normal. Ensure that the employees have access to the best hardware, software, and tools they need to work seamlessly. Do not consider it a one-time task because you need to make sure that everything is in place. Employees may accumulate duplicates on devices over time, compromising performance and productivity. Educate them about duplicate finder tools so that they can choose one of them to declutter their devices. Also, offer consistent IT support and stay ahead of tech upgrades at the workplace. 

Teamwork

Strong teams make productive workplaces. Teamwork becomes even more crucial when your business runs on a hybrid model. People depend on co-workers for support and assistance when they run into trouble. Additionally, it keeps everyone on the same page and working toward common goals, regardless of their location. HR managers need to do their bit by providing collaboration tools and establishing team goals. 

Incentives 

When it comes to building a sustainable and productive workplace, incentives are another element you cannot miss out on. They act as fuel and keep people going the extra mile with productivity and efficiency. You may offer cash rewards or get creative with gamification and point systems. At times, appreciation can do wonders to keep employees happy and engaged. Incentives boost the performers and inspire the laggards, so the benefits extend beyond imagination.

It may take a little more effort for HR managers to build a productive workplace in the new normal. But it is worthwhile, considering it empowers your team and business sustainability and future readiness. 

Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay