Leaders, do you have a ‘joy gap’ at work?
Now, you may say, ‘Seriously?! Who has time to worry about joy? I’ve got positions to fill. I’m trying to keep the team focused on top priorities, and oh, btw, concerns about making our numbers in this uncertain economy are keeping me up at night.’
Here is information that could help you do all of those things and more.
In 2018 and 2021, surveys were conducted asking people what they expect from work compared to what they actually feel. In both instances, more than half of those surveyed indicated they felt less joy on the job than they expected (63% last year!). This was true regardless of level in the organization, age, or location. So how do you turn things around?
Researchers identified three ways to increase joy at work: praise, purpose, and people.
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PRAISE – You probably think of yourself as an appreciative person, yet how often do you voice the appreciative thoughts you have? I’ve been told that, as leaders, we tend to share only 1 in 30 of our positive thoughts. Instead, it is more typical for leaders to focus on improvement and constructive feedback. Don’t just have good intentions. Act! Consider how recognition can improve retention, encourage greater effort, and increase employee morale.
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PURPOSE – Help your employees connect their work to your organization’s purpose. What are they doing that moves the organization forward every day? Employees who see how they are making a difference tend to be more productive, more committed, and (yes) more joyful.
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PEOPLE – Take actions that encourage connection within and between teams. People want to be seen, heard, and appreciated for who they are. You help make that happen when you connect with and recognize others as their leader. Also look for ways to encourage social connection and fun on work teams. Pressure to perform can be lightened when team members enjoy working with one another, share laughter, and support each other in accomplishing their goals.
It’s easy to get so ‘busy’ that we miss opportunities for improvement. Which of these actions would make the greatest difference for your team right now?
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/joy-gap-reducing-your-results-work-phyllis-sarkaria-mcec/
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