The sense of work satisfaction, belonging and commitment, and ultimately the success of your organization, relies heavily on how well staff members get along and how strongly staff members feel attached to the work place.
Here are 4 ways you can work to create a harmonious environment for staff in your group home or day program.
1. Open Communication: Establishing open communication between staff is key to creating a harmonious work environment for all involved. Create a culture where comments and suggestions are welcome; do not meet criticism with animosity or contempt. Also, share when changes to the organization are made that impact the team. They shouldn’t learn through the grapevine; give them a heads up. Poor communication can erode trust and morale, increasing turnover rates.
2. Team Building: Often the nature of working together, relying on one another to complete projects or tasks, or to help or support consumers, provides opportunities for bonding and learning more about one another. Implement additional intentional team-building exercises, like reorganizing or decorating a space or planning a company event.
3. Celebrating Wins: Acknowledge staff members for their hard work and dedication. Show that you see them putting in the extra time, sweat and tears to ensure the team and consumers succeed. Recognize personal and professional achievements like graduations and work anniversaries. Share words of praise and motivating messages. Host an awards brunch or dinner to show your appreciation.
4. Have Fun: Finding joy in each other’s company and setting aside time to relax increases rapport, encourages staff engagement and commitment. Find moments throughout the workday to inject work-appropriate humor, to laugh, tell funny stories, to spread some cheer. Host a regular cookout, holiday party, etc. to give staff something to look forward to and get excited about.