It’s not complicated: if you want employees to find their home with you, if you want to stop sifting through the application pools every day, and if you want to cut down on the never-ending cycle of orientations and training sessions, create a work culture that people don’t want to leave.

Steps to Create a Positive Work Environment

A positive work environment doesn’t just happen; it takes effort and time. But the efforts required aren’t impossible nor are they the secrets of an elite few. To create a culture that people don’t want to leave, start by asking employees these Gallup approved questions:

  • What do you believe you are paid to do?
  • Are there things that get in your way of meeting the responsibilities of your role?
  • How can I help you be successful in your role?
  • What parts or activities of your current role energize you?
  • What do you want to accomplish in the next month? Six months? Year?
  • What do you think I expect of you this year?
  • What do you expect of me as your manager?
  • When you achieve your goals, how do you like to be recognized?

Helping employees feel like an integral part of their company’s mission and helping employees feel respected and not easily replaced goes a long way for employee morale and loyalty.

Human nature desires validation and a sense of belonging. Employees who believe in their company’s mission and who feel like a valued contributor to that mission and the company’s overall purpose aren’t likely to actively seek new employment.

The Seven Dwarfs Knew Best: Whistle While You Work

If you’re not sure if you have a positive work culture, ask yourself if employees look forward to going to work. Of course, many people would rather sit with a mai tai on a gorgeous sandy beach as the breeze cools down the heat of the sun’s rays.

But outside of vacation, ask yourself if employees are happy to pay their bills and grow professionally within your company. If the answer is no, refer back to the bulleted list above, and start the conversations needed for you and your company’s growth.

The seven dwarfs were on to something. If you can get your employees to figuratively whistle while they work, which means they’re happy to be there and stay positive and productive while contributing to the overall goal, you’ll be closer to a positive work culture than you have ever been before.