Great Ways to Boost Morale
One of a managers most important jobs is to keep spirits up in the work place. With stress levels in America at an all time high, this isn't always easy to do. However here are some ideas you can use that will get the job done, without hurting your budget.
Sponsor a "Noon Show". Once a week, show a funny old movie (they are short!) or episodes from Seinfeld, Home Improvement or other situation comedies.
Set up a "Humor Corner". Designate one section of the store or office as the place for humor, and encourage employees to post cartoons, jokes or other funny material.
Get out of the office or store! Whenever possible, hold meetings outside the workplace, such as the coffee shop down the street or a local restaurant. If weather permits, go to the park or the beach.
Sponsor an "Interesting Pizza Day". Once a month, treat employees to pizza (gourmet pizza shops now feature dozens of specialty toppings) and encourage people to try different kinds.
Liven up you memos. Buy a book of one-liners and include a joke at the bottom of your memos.
Have a "late Day Monday". If possible, once a month, allow your employees to arrive an hour late on a Monday morning or to leave an hour early on a Friday. If store hours don't permit this, have employees take turns on different days.
Take pictures! Everyone office has an aspiring photographer. Ask that person to take candid shots of employees and add them to your "humor corner" and/or include them in your newsletters, advertising and holiday cards.
Play with the dress code. If your culture allows it, hold an "Ugly Tie", "Ugly Pants" or "Ugly Shirt" day and then award prizes for the winners. Crazy Hat days are always popular too! This is fun for both the employees and the customers!