Whether the team operates in a virtual environment where everyone works from home or a traditional office setting, being able to effectively manage the workplace is crucial for management. It is also one of the most challenging aspects of a manager’s job. Let’s be real here – almost everyone has something they could or would rather be doing instead of going to work on a daily basis. On top of that, there are some days when even the most motivated of employees just does not feel like punching the clock and tending to their job-related responsibilities.

Even managers and high ranking executives have their dog days, but as authority figures, it is usually their job to ensure that conditions in the workplace are optimal. There is no guarantee that the ride will always be smooth and easy, but there are a few things that can be done to create an environment staff and team members enjoy being a part of every day they come to work.

Bring out the Best in Your Workers

We would like to think that each of our workers is always giving their best, but that is just not realistic. Over time, it is possible that some of your team members will grow bored with their job because they feel like they are not being challenged. Instead of coming down hard on them, it might be better to encourage them to discover and maximize the use of their talents. This may even call for you to assign the worker to an entirely new position and role, but if they are truly a good fit for your organization, doing what it takes to keep them happy and motivated will likely result in a win-win for both sides.

Sprinkle in a Little Fun

It is probably not a good idea for employees to spend the majority of the day goofing off, but there is nothing wrong with having a workplace environment the staff views as a fun place to hang out. So what can you do to liven things up? Raffles, lottery pools and birthday celebrations for employees are just a few examples of fun ideas that will have your crew circling dates on their calendars in anticipation. Perhaps the best thing you can do in this regard is round up the team and kick around ideas about what is truly fit for the fun schedule. This way, you can create occasions that everyone actually looks forward to, rather than loathe and ridicule when huddled in the break room.

Show Appreciation

One of the most effective ways to maintain an ideal workplace environment is to simply recognize the quality performances your employees are logging, and show that those efforts are appreciated. In fact, you should aim above and beyond when it comes to demonstrating just how much they are appreciated. Although it always helps to be financially endowed, showering staff with appreciation does not require you to strain the budget. For instance, you could create a “kudos” or similar program that recognizes and rewards them with points that lead to a bigger reward each time they go above and beyond. Rewarding hard work will drive them to work even harder.

Different business owners tend to take different approaches to managing the work environment. Some choose to run such a tight ship that they suck all the fun and life out of the operation. Then you have others who take a laid back approach, and try to be more of a friend than a boss. Everyone has their own methods, but in most cases, it is that careful balance of both that creates the best possible environment for staff and management.