Creating a Work Environment Your Contingent Workers Will Enjoy
Having a positive workplace does more than simply make the workday more pleasant. Often, it boosts morale, and that can translate into higher productivity. While creating a culture that appeals to your long-term staff is often a primary concern, by crafting one that your contingent workers can also appreciate is a smart idea. This ensures that everyone is happy, allowing them to be at their best while they are part of your team.
Here are 6 ways to create a positive work environment:
1. Start with the Workspace
When the physical environment is pleasant, everyone is more comfortable, including your contingent staff. Make sure everyone has access to enjoyable spaces, like well-appointed breakrooms. Focus on providing quality lighting to make interior areas less dark and give access to ergonomic workstation options whenever possible to promote good health. Anything that makes your workspace attractive and highly functional can be an idea worth exploring. If you aren’t sure what your contingent workers will appreciate most, consider asking. They will likely be happy to provide their input.
2. Offer Development Opportunities
Since your contingent workers may not be with you for the long-term, providing them with professional development opportunities can make you stand out as an employer of choice. Many employees accept contingent positions to help build their resumes and gain additional experience. If you can assist them in reaching this goal, morale can soar. Plus, you get the added benefit of a higher skilled workforce, which may make achieving your business objectives easier as well. Another bonus of offering professional development opportunities is the ability to create a sense of loyalty. This increases the chances that short-term workers will stay for the duration of a project as well as interest in staying on as permanent employees if the option arises. This ensures you are not experiencing a revolving door of contingent staff members, creating a stable situation for you and your workforce.
3. Provide a Variety of Work
Providing a variety of work not only keeps contingent workers engaged, but also fosters a dynamic and stimulating work environment. By exposing them to new challenges and tasks, you encourage skill development and keep the workday interesting. This approach not only prevents monotony but also taps into the aspirations of contingent workers who are eager to broaden their experience and enhance their professional growth. When contingent workers feel that their roles are diverse and meaningful, it contributes significantly to their job satisfaction and overall enjoyment on the job, ultimately benefiting the entire organization.
4. Be Transparent
Transparency is something every employee craves. Understanding the current state and health of the business provides everyone with a level of security, including your contingent workers. Additionally, by keeping your supplemental workforce apprised of their employment status, such as whether a project’s progress may result in shorter or longer-term assignment options, you can help them plan for their future. Ultimately, no one likes being left in the dark, so make an effort to keep your contingent staff informed if you want to create a work environment they will enjoy.
5. Put Trust in Them
Some companies worry about giving their contingent workers too much autonomy. However, if they have the skills and experiences necessary to succeed, extending them trust can do more than just improve morale but also free up managers who may otherwise be micromanaging the team’s activities. Trust also builds a sense of loyalty between contingent workers and the company. Even if the assignment is short-term, this connection may make them more inclined to stay for the duration, increasing your retention rates while improving morale.
6. Show Appreciation
Similar to any employee, contingent workers want their hard work to be recognized and appreciated. Taking the time to celebrate their achievements and show gratitude for their contributions can go a long way in making them feel like valued members of the team. Some ways to show employee appreciation is through highlighting accomplishments in company newsletters, starting an “Employee of the Month” program, or celebrating significant milestones. These initiatives can significantly boost morale and create a positive atmosphere within the workplace.
Setting Up for Success
By following these six tips, you can create a work environment that everyone on your team will enjoy. Not only will this improve morale and productivity, but it may also make your company more attractive to top talent in the future. A positive workplace culture is crucial for any organization looking to thrive. So, if you are interested in how to make your workplace more welcoming to your contingent staff members, Award Staffing can help. Contact us to speak with one of our experienced team members today.
