How we work is an evolving concept, and being able to engage your employees is a key aspect to building a great startup culture. Startups might have a natural advantage by naturally integrating technology and digital solutions into their work – this should lead to a more connected office. However, there are issues that most companies – big or small – face due to demanding needs of employees and a rapidly changing culture.
We see it as a positive that employees are now more in control of how they work and have more say in office culture, but this can present challenges to a growing company. The new (newer, depending on how you look at it) generation of workers look for meaning as well as gainful employment.
We speak to the startup looking to improve employee engagement
There are digital tools that help create a cohesive and connected work space for your company. We explore how startups can use these tools to engage their employees and build a sustainable and positive culture.
Leverage a shared digital space
According to PwC, by 2030, the majority of the world’s workforce will need flexibility, autonomy, and fulfillment in their job. By creating digital spaces online, startups can offer their employees full access to resources and channels of communication without the constraints of an office environment. We’re not just talking emails and storage, but a complete toolbox of services they might need.
For example, if you are a startup marketer, you might need access to templates, software tools, CRM software and more – these can be easily made accessible through SaaS accounts and a simple online folder for your marketing team.
Create a feedback process
A great culture is often built on honesty and trust. This means an open line of communication and feedback without the fear of retribution.
While many founders may feel they are fair and open to criticism, their employees may not feel comfortable sharing feedback that may seem critical of management. However, this sort of feedback is crucial for a growing company and also showing your team that you’re open to change.
Let your employees know that the business is looking to constantly improve. Remaining anonymous can make feedback easier for people and using simple digital tools. Even using tools like Typeform or Mailchimp and not including a compulsory name section allows your employees to voice their frustrations or feedback anonymously and easily.
Give some decision-making power to your team
Polls or voting on issues is a great way to get everyone involved and give them a voice in office matters. By giving people a say in these matters shows them a couple of things:
- The management values their opinion
- They have a voice in how the office culture can grow
Regardless of the size of your team, you can run polls quickly and efficiently using any online polling software or even integrating polls into your Slack channels.
How do you create a work culture for remote teams
These do not have to be critical decisions, but from simple things like decisions on what snacks to buy for the pantry or even picking the company offsite location – it helps keep people engaged and active throughout what can sometimes be very mundane decisions.
Well there you have it. Digital tools can be used to promote collaboration, engagement, and transparency within your startup. These will ultimately improve employee satisfaction and contribute towards a better work culture.