Creating and maintaining a positive work environment is important for morale, problem solving, skill development and ultimately productivity in the workplace. Some people have a natural tendency to look on the bright side, whilst others can develop a habit of thinking negatively, particularly those prone to depression (as a primary illness or as a result of disability).
There are a number of strategies, aids and support services available to assist in promoting positive thinking in the workplace.
Workplace solutions and adjustments
On the job strategies
- praise and positive reinforcement or feedback (this can be as easy as a simple "thank you" or showing someone gratitude for good job performance)
- treating workers fairly, as well as respectfully
- fostering good relationships between workers and encouraging open and honest communication
- establishing clear goals or expectations (setting clear targets helps workers to achieve and feel a sense of accomplishment or purpose in their work—visual performance charts may assist with goal setting, see link below)
- offering rewards for achieving goals and good job performance (including financial and other tangible rewards)
- encouraging workers to utilise their individual talents
- adjusting the physical environment of the workplace in order to increase comfort levels for workers - this can include controlling the temperature and air quality, as well as providing ergonomic equipment such as desks, chairs and adjustable workstations (see relevant links for more information or contact Job Access on 1800 464 800 to discuss the Workplace Modification Scheme outlined below):
- fostering a healthy lifestyle for workers. For example, be conscious of stress levels in the workplace, encourage physical fitness and if lunches are provided, make healthy foods available (Accel Team 2007; Dusak, J. 2007). For more information see:
Aids
Visual performance charts may be a useful in providing a quick and easy means of tracking progress against set goals or targets. People can see that they are achieving or working towards completing work goals, which can create a positive outlook regarding job satisfaction.
Support Services
A trained psychologist may be able to assist workers challenge negative thoughts and change thinking patterns through techniques such as re-framing (for instance, taking a different point of view) and introducing the use of more positive language or self talk.
Lastly, the Australian Government Workplace Modifications Scheme is a service aimed to encourage and support the employment of eligible people with disability by providing financial assistance for the cost of equipment, aids and building modifications that may be needed to modify a workplace. The cost of adjusting the workplace may be reduced with the assistance of this scheme.
Other job requirements or solutions
References
Accel Team 2007, Employee Motivation: Theory and Practice, Accel Team, Cumbria, viewed 1 July 2007,http://www.accel-team.com/motivation/index.html
Dusak, J. 2007, Positive Reinforcement in the Workplace, University of St Francis, Joliet, viewed 1 July 2007, http://www.stfrancis.edu/ba/ghkickul/stuwebs/btopics/works/postrein.html