Success in business is about mind over matter. As a business owner, you’ll know that a go-getter attitude is key to fulfilling your goals. But instilling this within your team can be a little bit more difficult. Negativity in the workplace can quash ambition and impede progress, which makes it vital to nip negative attitudes in the bud as early as possible.
To help you tackle these issues head-on and get your team back on track with a positive mindset, I’ve got some tips on how to overcome negativity in your business.
Understand the problem
The first step to boosting morale within the workplace is to understand where improvements can be made. Are your whole team exuding negativity, or is one individual bringing the group down? Is the sentiment anger, frustration or simply apathy?
Take the time to dig into the feelings of your team – regular meetings and one-to-ones can be invaluable for gathering feedback – so that you can begin to identify issues and develop a plan to resolve them.
Developing a shared vision
One of the main reasons why employees develop a negative attitude is because they feel detached from the business and its leaders. There’s a lot to be said for involving your team when defining the vision and goals of your business; asking for their input will make them feel a part of the business and its success – a self-fulfilling prophecy, if you like.
Team building days are a fun, interactive and hands-on way to bring your team together. As well as giving your workforce a change of scenery from the four walls of the office, it will also give you a chance to bond beyond the traditional boundaries of boss-employee, encouraging trust and mutual understanding.
Maintain morale
Tackling negativity in the workplace shouldn’t be a one-off initiative, though. To overcome issues and maintain positive momentum, it’s vital to prioritise the happiness and well-being of your team on a continual basis. Rewards like a free meal or early finish for high-performers will encourage your team to work to their full potential.
Meanwhile, little things can have a big impact on morale. Consider initiatives such as flexible hours, dress down days, beers in the office on a Friday afternoon, or assigning employees to organise socials outside of work, which can all help to create and maintain a happy and motivated workforce. The possibilities are endless, with plenty of scope to be creative!
Just like entrepreneurs can become stuck in a rut, so too can your team. The sooner you recognise negativity, perceive the root causes, and tackle these issues head on, the sooner you can improve motivation and positivity within the workplace.
Can’t see the wood for the trees? Business coaching can reignite your passion for business, helping you to inspire your workforce and make lasting change within your organisation. If you’d like to find out more, please feel free to get in touch!
