How to spot a positive work environment

Our recent blog post looked at signs of a toxic workplace. But if you’re interviewing or ready to look for a new role, what signs point to a workplace that cultivates a positive and happy work environment?

Here’s the bare minimum everyone deserves at work ⤵️

Supportive Leadership

Leaders who mentor, guide, and genuinely care about your growth. A good leader won’t make you feel scared to ask for support. They’ll champion their team members (not take credit for work well done) and shield them when necessary (not throwing people under the bus!). The most supportive managers will be able to balance the needs of the business with your personal career goals to help get the best results for you and your company.

Collaborative Culture

Teamwork is emphasised, and colleagues support each other and don’t tear each other down. While ‘team socials’ can be an added bonus, they aren’t the only way to encourage team bonding. This also comes through open communication to ensure everyone is aware of workloads and gaps, and it’s essential to recognise and celebrate the work of individuals and teams together. 

Work-Life Balance

Respect for your personal time is prioritised, whether that’s flexible hours or downtime during the day to accommodate carer duties or health issues—anything that will help you manage your workload so you can meet deadlines effectively. 

Recognition and Rewards

Your hard work and achievements are acknowledged and celebrated. This is, of course, through promotions, pay rises, and bonuses. But it is also through verbal feedback, sharing achievements with management and the team, and ensuring clients know who’s responsible for great results.

Professional Development

Opportunities for learning, growth, and career advancement are abundant. They may have a training budget available for each employee, which you can use to take courses of your choice. Or, they may have a solid learning and development programme, which you can use to upskill and progress.

Positive Atmosphere

Feeling comfortable and happy in the workplace, not worrying about gossip (and bitching). Clique-y offices aren’t welcoming places to be. Breakout spaces that allow for working in fresh environments, as well as social spaces such as coffee stations or outdoor spaces, can enable employees to step away from their desks to refresh and socialise if they want to, without the pressure of giving up their personal time in the evenings for team outings.

There are many things that can be done to encourage a positive work environment, and we’ve provided just a few here.