Nonprofits: You’re Not Going Anywhere With That Toxic Work Environment

A thriving work environment improves employee engagement. Not surprisingly, the most engaged workplaces also fuel sustained productivity. The correlation is quite obvious. Unlocking this potential requires a blend of strategies that:

• Build understanding of team members’ individual and collective strengths
• Coordinate responsibilities in alignment with those strengths
• Empower team members to achieve on THEIR terms
• Nurture relationships

The nonprofit world especially is rife with toxicity and workplace environments that do very little (or nothing) to promote collaboration. Shocking, right? You’d think that nonprofits – organizations committed to community good – would operate seamlessly. But for so many chronically lacking resources and staff, doing the right things consistently is all the more difficult.

Our friends and partners at Strength Solutions, Inc. know this well, and they’re committed to helping other community-based organizations to improve their workspaces and boost capacities for impact. Check out their original blog here (and we’ve included a brief synopsis below).

1. Acknowledge & Reward: The Recognition Factor

Boosting a mere 24% of employee satisfaction in recognition levels, many workplaces miss the mark. Crafting a culture that celebrates exceptional efforts and sacrifices is pivotal. This breeds motivation and nurtures employee loyalty, a catalyst for growth. Be it planned events or spontaneous appreciations, gratitude acts as a magnetic force against high turnover rates from unappreciated staff.

2. Task Time vs. Task Excitement: Navigating Productivity

Unraveling the productivity puzzle requires nuanced approaches beyond measuring hours on task. Individual preferences, work models, and hybrid setups define the equation. Effective solutions hinge on communication, flexibility, and a balanced blend of remote and in-office work.

3. Essential Skills: The Key Soft Touch

While technical skills shine, nurturing essential “soft” skills like communication and time management also improves workplace harmony. These traits empower personal growth and fortify team productivity.

4. Cross-Development Training: Harmonizing Departments

In an interdependent workspace, cross-development training bridges gaps and boosts collaboration. Understanding other departments and their functions fuels efficient communication and holistic productivity.

5. Relationship Cultivation: Heart of Harmony

Businesses thrive on relationships, both internal and external. Shared values and goals underpin a healthy environment. Engage in dialogues, acknowledge pain points, and harmonize personal values to foster team unity and commitment.

6. Balancing Work-Life: The Pursuit of Harmony

Amid the pandemic-induced hybrid work norms, preserving work-life balance is paramount. By promoting clear boundaries, wellness programs, and flexibility, you nurture a workforce that thrives and contributes wholeheartedly.