Teams are often judged based on their ability to produce output. Companies rely on their employees to work efficiently and effectively to properly provide whatever service they’re offering. However, too much pressure can leave a bad feeling in their employees. This is where a manager needs to step in, by making easing some of the pressure but still accomplishing what is required of them.
So how can you improve the productivity and efficiency in your office?
Here are some tips you can follow:
Train Your Staff Properly
It goes without saying that for a job to be effectively accomplished, the ones doing it needs to know how to do it efficiently. They need to have the skillset and knowledge necessary to make things easier and faster. This can be done by training them properly and consistently. Assuming that they will understand everything in 2 weeks’ worth of training will not suffice- properly integrating them and understanding their beginner mistakes also matter.
Use Online Chat Tools
We live in an era of being always connected. We no longer need to rely on bulletin boards with paper noticed tacked on them, and we no longer need to wait to inform someone of something. Using the latest communication tools will allow you to stay connected with your staff and coworkers, while at the same thing providing you a virtual space to post important announcements and files. Take advantage of communication tools as it is a great way to collaborate and communicate with others.
Know Your Staff’s Strengths
It makes very little sense to assign a task to someone who is not good at it- perhaps for a learning experience, provided you have the time. To truly make the workplace efficient, you need to know the strengths and weaknesses of your employees. This way you can assign the appropriate tasks to those with the skills for it while knowing what to train the others in. Also, by assigning specific tasks to certain people, you’re lessening wasted time as this ensures that everyone is working on something within their skill set.
Prioritize By Importance
Offices tend to work on more than one project at a time, but it’s not a reason to juggle multiple ones all at the same time. It’s best to prioritize task allocation by importance (which is the deadline), instead of the time receiving it. This way, your team will be able to gauge whether you need to allot more manpower or effort in a specific assignment.
Take Breaks Seriously
People assume that they can simply work through breaks, thinking that doing so will help them finish their tasks faster. However, this accomplishes nothing but tire them out and is a sure recipe for burnout. Taking breaks is just as important as working hard, as it allows for the tired mind to rest. A refreshed mind works better and than a tired one, and breaks are needed for that.
Don’t Be Strict, Be Human
A strict workplace isn’t exactly an efficient one. It can be bogged down by red tape or other paperwork, or even become too constricting for the employees to work their best. Sometimes, being strict can prove inefficient- especially in moments where your employees are showing signs of distress. They might be worried about a sick family member or the deadline of a home loan payment, whatever their reason may be, it doesn’t stand to be strict. Always be human and empathetic, be understanding, and your staff will see it fit to put in their best effort.
It cannot be denied that making workflow efficient and more productive is a difficult task, but it’s far from impossible. As a matter of fact, being more efficient can help offset the pressures of work as it allows a team to be free of work obligations relatively faster.