Robert Baron, a management professor at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, said three of the most critical factors that affect morale are lighting, temperature, and noise. And improved morale can lead to higher productivity and lower absenteeism.
Boosting employee morale doesn’t have to be expensive or involved. Even contagious cheerfulness on a regular basis can mean the difference between a dour workplace and a welcoming, productive one. Ask the employees for their ideas and listen to their thoughts. Work out a viable plan that will motivate them and make them more productive and happier at the same time.
Offer Contests and Awards
Special days such as “Ugliest Outfit Day” or “Best Disguise Day” or “Funniest Story Day” can be a way to lighten the mood for a bit and encourage communication between employees. Offer “awards” which can be simple prizes and certificates given to the winners to display.
Install a Humor Board
Most every office has several memo boards for important work-related information, some pleasant, some not so pleasant. Install a memo board in a neutral location that is specifically for people to post jokes, cartoons, funny pictures or amusing anecdotes. This way everyone can get a little laugh after arriving for work on a dreary Monday morning.
Start a Swear Fund
This concept speaks for itself, and it is an idea that has many benefits. However, it can go wrong if taken to extremes (just like anything). Here is an example [apologies for the implied foul language and the shameless Bud Light promotion]:
Workplace Morale Booster
We are officially launching a curse jar at our office. Have a great f…ing weekend!
That is F***ing hilarious!!