Supporting Your Employees Through Everything

There are many pros and cons of independent working, and as a manager, you may prefer to see your employees get on with it themselves rather than ask you a hundred questions throughout the day. However, while your employees may demonstrate a self-starter attitude, they still require support in some areas, and ignoring these support needs can have a catastrophic impact on employee morale and your office environment. 

Stop Overworking Them

It has become a broken record amongst many industry circles, but overworking your employees is the biggest hindrance to their well-being and overall job satisfaction. Although it may seem convenient to be able to contact your employees at any time, they need to switch off, and you cannot use the excuse that you don’t switch off, because you aren’t them, and they are not you. Burnout is a significant problem that can lead to a host of other issues in the office, so learn how to recognise when you are overworking your employees and accept that they need a rest. 

Understand Their Different Needs

Not every employee is the same, and a key skill of management is being able to understand these needs and applying different approaches to unique employees. Some employees benefit from challenges but others need an arm around their shoulder to motivate them. You should also consider any differently-abled employees and make sure your office is accessible for them by working with NDIS to get a better idea of the level of support your employees need to ensure they are comfortable and feel considered. 

Encourage Professional Development 

If you have hired a team of ambitious and eager employees, you can offer support by encouraging their professional development. There are many opportunities for you to provide this development for them, including management courses or mentorship. Such support can increase employee satisfaction and also prepare your team for any moments when you are not at the office. Rather than feel like deer in the headlights, someone will be able to take charge, lead the way, and maintain order within the office. 

Pay Them Fairly 

Above all else, employees expect support through their wages or salary. With the minimum wage of $21.38/hour, you should pay your employees at least this much, and arguably even more depending on your company turnover and any additional responsibilities they have. Right now, it is an employee market, with many being able to find better jobs if they care to search for them. Top talent will always find a place to work, so compensating them fairly for their contribution and demonstrating your appreciation means they feel supported. Furthermore, fair pay and a stable income are better for their mental well-being which can improve your business and help growth. 

Support

All employees require support at some point in their careers. As long as you can identify when they need support and the type of support they require, you can keep them happy and healthy. This won’t just benefit your office and business but also make them more capable in other aspects of their life. 

Alison Morgan