How to boost employee morale in 2014

One of the most vital elements of workforce management is keeping morale high. When employees lack confidence and feel like they're struggling to make it through every single shift, it should be apparent to the HR department that there are significant cultural issues with the organization. If these problems aren't addressed promptly, contributors will likely become disengaged with their responsibilities and will likely start looking for new jobs. 

With 2013 rapidly heading toward its conclusion, now may be the best time to develop new strategies for improving morale. Read on for a ways ways you can achieve this objective and start 2014 on the right foot. 

Make the office comfortable
The workplace shouldn't feel like a prison. If your employees are uncomfortable every time they come into the office, they'll likely be highly dissatisfied with their jobs. Lois Goodell, principal and the director of interior design at CBT Architects, explained to Inc. Magazine that comfort is king for enhancing morale

"Designing a comfortable environment is about more than aesthetics – careful attention to design can give a boost to employee happiness," Goodell said. 

The news source points out that it takes more than comfortable chairs to keep workers happy. Redesigning the lighting scheme so the office isn't always super bright could do wonders for the staff. 

Allow personal projects 
In some cases, the best way to keep staff members happy is to allow them to pursue personal passions. According to Entrepreneur Magazine, Atlassian occasionally has a "FedEx Day" during which employees are allowed to work on their own projects as long as it's work related. The final results have to be delivered in approximately 24 hours, which is why the day is named after the shipping company. 

Giving staff members a designated time-frame towards special projects can keep them inspired and motivated.  It highlights the individual and provides an opportunity to reveal a different side of them-self and their talents.

Acknowledge special contributions
Acknowledging creativity and special contributions within an organization encourages "out-of-the-box" thinking and celebrates the uniqueness of each employee.

"As an organization, our CEO provides a group platform to recognize the outstanding efforts of an employee or team.  In-house lunch specials are organized and all employees are invited via email.  A short presentation is given by the employee being recognized and special acknowledgment is given by the manager as well as the CEO," states Tina Freedman, Director of Marketing for Triton HR.  This type of program boosts employee morale and reinforces that as much as overall work is about team effort, individual contribution is important and should be recognized."

Naptime
In kindergarten, many kids are given naptime near the middle of the day. Unfortunately, some students don't want to sleep at all, but that attitude seems to change when they get older. The American Express OPEN Forum notes that allowing employees time to catch some shut-eye during their shifts can boost morale.

Converting an empty room into a sleep center with comfortable cushions and chairs would be a great benefit to the staff. Most workers will wake up feeling refreshed and ready to tackle all of their responsibilities for the rest of the day.