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Employees need to be intellectually energized and stimulated ongoing, which means no one, no matter their position in the the organization, should be expected to come in every single day and perform the same functions. When that happens, an establishment is neither utilizing the intelligence of its employees nor is it advancing their growth.

Even if there is no funding for promotions, there should be some way tasks are rotated and award systems created to inspire competition to stimulate intellectual curiosity. As functioning human beings, everyone needs thought-provoking challenges from time to time for mental stimulation and growth.

Employees need to know they will be treated fairly and respected for their contributions to the organization as there is an inverse correlation between above-average productivity and equitable treatment. It is not difficult to create a culture of fairness no matter how diverse the workforce. Each employee should be given the vision of the organization, the mission, and the goals and objectives. As this is the mainstay of any organization, these guidelines and other organizational precepts should be visited regularly to ensure everyone understands what is expected of them and the direction the organization is headed.

When employees know the organization's expectations the responsibility for compliance will rest with each of them; this should decrease accusations of unfairness. Many employees have poor work habits because no one ever let them know how or where they fit within the organization or their importance to its success.

Employees like to know those in charge are consistent in their dealings with them. Even when there is bad news, they need to know their managers will always be truthful and honorable. For example, in cases of lay offs some managers will announce the dreadful news the week before employees are let go or just before some major holiday. That is wrong. Because today's employers often conduct business that way, trust and loyalty from employees have all but disappeared.

Many employees do not expect any degree of allegiance from their employers and have no compunction about moving on to the next highest paying job. Employees do not like to feel they are expendable and all too often many employers make them feel that way.

Employees like to believe they retain some aspect of their individuality, no matter what job they perform in the organization. They do not all want to be painted with the same brush. Therefore, employers should get to know their employees, no matter their position in the organization. Getting to know them may be as simple as speaking with them or acknowledging their presence. From time to time, stop by the desk of a staff and ask about his or her functions; ask what they think about their job and what they can do to improve the way things are done. They are, after all, the company's most valuable assets.

When management strives to create the best possible work environment and encourages a culture of respect, equality, and individuality, employees will have a degree of contentment. Happiness is elusive and self-perpetuating and is dependent on far too many factors to stress here. Perhaps, it is safe to believe the average employee will settle for contentment as it alone can significantly raise office morale and motivate staff to perform at or above expectations.

Learn more about this author, Dossie M Terrell.
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