7 Ways to Unify Employees

One of the best ways to bring employees together is to make them feel unified in their goals and in their focus.  When employees feel that they are part of the group they make decisions as a group and their work becomes more cohesive.  When you have a team of people that are working towards a common goal they are more likely to achieve the goal, no matter how big or small it is.

There are 7 ways that you can make your team more unified:

1. Host a networking event.  Give employees the opportunity to gather to discuss current projects, team goals, and what they are working on.  When people have the chance to get together to talk about their work they often find others that share similar goals and objectives.  This can give them the chance to talk about similar experiences they have had and how problems were solved.  Conversation between staff should be encouraged because it will enable employees to find better ways to solve problems and learn from others.
2. Do lunch.  Have lunch with your staff. Encourage lunches between employees.  Host lunches with teams that work on similar projects.  A social activity like going for lunch allows employees to get to know each other on a non-work level and that encourages them to feel closer.  When people that work together know each other on a non-work level they are more likely to take each others’ needs into consideration.
3. Company events.  Hold events that promote the employees and celebrate successes.  Recognize people for what they have accomplished.
4. BBQ’s, picnics, and other non-work events.  When staff have the opportunity to gather and be in a more relaxed atmosphere they are more likely to reveal their true personalities.  The ties come off and people can relax more.  Often this gives managers the chance to see skills and talents that they might not have seen otherwise.  More importantly though, staff get to see each other in a new light and build friendships that make their jobs more enjoyable.
5. Involved staff in decisions.  Even though you may have the final say, ask people for their opinions.  When people feel that their opinions are wanted they will feel valued.  Even though you may not be able to implement their thoughts and opinions every time, the very fact that you are willing to take them into considerations will make your employees feel that they are part of the company.
6. Fully support them.  Give them the tools that they need to do their jobs.  Give them resources and information and access to information.
7. Lead by example.  If you want your staff to work extra hours, don’t leave early – be there with them.  Be present around the office.  Use the company staff room and talk to your employees.  Stop by their desk or office to say hello.  Ask how a project is doing.  Go to company events and lunches.  If you want them to be involved – then be involved!