Whatever size of office you are in charge of, you have to work with people. Your business will be disrupted by an unfriendly atmosphere in your office. On the other hand, your company will hum along like a well-oiled machine if you foster positive relationships with and among your co-workers. Here are five tips that will help ensure a friendly office atmosphere. 1. Develop a Positive Attitude Your employees look to you to set the tone for how your business operates. A positive attitude will help promote an office where everyone enjoys coming to work every day. A friendly office atmosphere will also be picked up by your customers and encourage them to do business with you. 2. Treat Every Employee with Respect Each person deserves your respect and should be regarded as a vital member of your team. It’s important to understand that people have different ways of looking at the world. If each team member feels that you respect the way they think, they will work harder to make your business a success. 3. Learn to Really Listen Effective communication begins with listening. Encourage your employees to talk to you and don’t interrupt them until they have finished. Take the following approach - yes, that’s a possibility, let me think about it, rather than no, that would never work. 4. Connect on a More Personal Level Show your concern for the well-being of your employees both in and out of the office. Learn about their personal lives – their families, interests, and goals. Have lunch with your co-workers and plan out-of-office events such as a bowling night. Showing a genuine interest in your staff helps promote a happier workplace. 5. Make Your Staff Feel Good by Helping Others Most people feel good about themselves when they’re helping others. Consider organizing a fundraising event for a charity. Involve your people by polling them with respect to which charity they would like to help support. You will bond with your employees by sharing these activities. Finally, Don’t Forget to Say Thank You There are many ways to provide rewards for a job well done - bonuses, gift cards, celebratory meals. Above all, don’t stint on positive feedback when your employees go above and beyond their normal responsibilities. A friendly office atmosphere is just good business practice! At Paramount we understand this, which is why we receive many compliments on how well our team works together. So, contact us for your facility management needs.