It’s the little things that count when it comes to employee appreciation. Even low cost  simple workplace strategies can make a big difference. It does not have to be an expensive  complete overhaul of your office space. It’s been proven time and time again that happy employees = engaged employees = productive employees. A study from Warwick University proved that employees work harder when they are happy. SnackNation has a great Infographic (below) showing “11 Shocking Employee Happiness Statistics That Will Blow Your Mind.”

Companies whose employees consider themselves happy outperform their competition by 20%. Millennial employees, in particular, expect certain perks in the workplace.

Five Simple Workplace Strategies

1. Offer Free Snacks

This has proven to be one of the most successful way to keep employees happy. The good news is that it doesn’t seem to matter what the food is! From granola bars to fruit snacks, instant oatmeal, “emergency chocolate”, fresh fruit, weekly bagels, pizza Fridays – choose whatever works for your budget and company culture.

2. Encourage Leaving the Office for Lunch

Workaholic culture has created an atmosphere where taking a lunch break is seen as a luxury. Employees skipping lunch or eating at their desks should be a rarity, not the norm. Encourage employees to leave the office, or at least their desk area, to clear their head, get some fresh air, and come back to their desks ready to work.

3. Arrange Discounts for Local Businesses

Many restaurants and service based companies are happy to set up a discount structure for local companies. Restaurants and coffee shops are a usually a great place to start, but gyms, salons, and even some independent retail stores are a good bet too. Be open to options based on their company model. Some business may offer standing discounts with a company card or larger one time discounts for bulk orders.

4. Offer a Mixture of Office Supplies

Some people prefer black or blue pens, color ink, legal pads, spiral notebooks, multicolored post-its. It’s a small thing, but offering options when it comes to office supplies can enhance creativity and helps with individual organization. When you’re employees feel in control they will be more productive.

5. Create Incentive Programs

Productivity based incentive programs are a proven workplace strategy that increase employee happiness. They don’t need to be complicated. Focus on a main company goal that everyone can help achieve regardless of their position in the company. Award points for daily or weekly steps towards the goal.  Set up a company ‘store’ where employees can redeem points for small prizes like longer lunches and gifts. Host a special event once you’ve met your company goal. Keep it fun and positive!

We hope these five simple workplace strategies have you thinking about employee appreciation and productivity. It does not have to be expensive to let your employees know that you appreciate their efforts. Contact us for more workplace strategies and information on finding an office, agile workspaces, office design, and more.