09/ 05/ 2006
The phrase "quality of life" seems to be on everyone's minds these days. We hear the term from political leaders, industry sources and the media. We are reminded constantly about the issues that affect life's quality, from the amenities in our communities to the safety of our highways.
What's the quality of life like in your workplace? How welcoming, for example, is your place of business to employees, customers and visitors? How affirming is your workplace toward the needs and aspirations of the people you encounter each day? Just how positive is the tenor of your place of business?
To start thinking about workplace quality of life issues, complete this simple inventory. Rate your workplace along each of the characteristics noted here. If the feature perfectly describes your workplace, give yourself a 3. If the attribute usually––but not always––is present, you get a 2. If the attribute is occasionally present, give yourself a 1. And if it's never present, you get a 0.
1. The physical environment is inviting and marked by décor that appeals to the senses. 3 2 1 0
2. The overall tone of the office or shop is upbeat and marked by smiles and enthusiasm. 3 2 1 0
3. The workplace offers a readily available quiet space for meetings or "heads-down" work. 3 2 1 0
4. Employees and customers feel strongly enough about my organization that they speak positively about it on their own. 3 2 1 0
5. My workplace offers an inviting lunchroom or "hang-out" room. 3 2 1 0
6. The workplace values diversity, accommodating people of different backgrounds who work effectively together. 3 2 1 0
7. My workplace offers regular training and professional development opportunities. 3 2 1 0
8. My workplace is rich in traditions and memories. 3 2 1 0
9. My employees and customers are involved in workplace-related charitable causes. 3 2 1 0
10. Employees have the opportunity to socialize during company-sponsored after-hours events and activities. 3 2 1 0
11. Employees and customers periodically receive awards and recognition for service or accomplishments. 3 2 1 0
12. My workplace is "family friendly," with ample opportunities for employees to tend to urgent family business. 3 2 1 0
13. We value the past contributions of retirees and former employees and keep in touch with them. 3 2 1 0
14. Employees believe that management is genuinely concerned about their well-being. 3 2 1 0
15. Employees are willing to help one another without expectation of payback. 3 2 1 0
16. Our people have the opportunity to meet and interact with peers from other businesses or industries. 3 2 1 0
17. Our workplace offers regular opportunities to provide suggestions and input into key decisions and initiatives. 3 2 1 0
18. Managers practice the art of "walking around" on a regular basis. 3 2 1 0
19. We offer up-to-date technology and other aids that make for convenient and efficient work. 3 2 1 0
20. Members of my workplace community know each other and greet each other by name. 3 2 1 0
Total your score. How well did you do?
- If you scored 50 or above, great! Your quality of life is probably superior. Keep it up.
- If you scored 40 to 49, not bad. Incorporate a few more of the quality-of-life characteristics noted here into your workplace practices, and you'll have a winner.
- If you scored 30 to 39, while you have some good things going, your workplace probably needs some work. New employee activities or a workplace council might help.
- If you scored below 30, you have many challenges––and opportunities––ahead of you. Have you thought about engaging a consultant to help?
Build a strong quality of life in your place of business, and the results will soon be apparent: An increased commitment to excellence, lower turnover, enhanced teamwork and greater productivity. Quality of life, at the end of day, equals success. You can't afford to ignore it.
