Labor Day is a traditional 21st century holiday. However, the history of this modern celebration, complete with backyard barbecues and pool parties, is a long one. Labor Day was born out of unfair working laws that pushed for unconditional and relentless work. In earlier centuries, American employees worked 12-16 hours a day, seven days a week. This was both exhausting and unsafe. To improve unfair working conditions and represent hard-working employees, Peter J. McGuire, a labor union leader, came up with the idea of Labor Day. Since then, things have changed greatly.
We have shifted from a long day of work to a variety of flextime work hours and days per week. Companies are working smarter - not longer, and have made great progress in recognizing the values employees contribute in the workplace.
The employee lifecycle has completely changed from manual work to automation. We have witnessed that employee satisfaction at the workplace is what matters the most. These days, companies focus on leveraging quality of work and work-life balance rather than pushing employees to work tirelessly.
What do you think about your work-life balance? Share your stories with us via email. We would love to hear about your work-life balance.
On Labor Day this year, we like to recognize some of the major changes we have seen over time.
● Stress-free work environment – Employees first
Modern companies no longer believe that employees will only give their best performance simply by being in the office for eight hours. Employees can work as per their comfort to perform better. In addition, employees are often allowed a flexible work schedule.
This boosts employee’s productivity and promotes a healthy lifestyle. In earlier times, employees did not have this option with their employers. They were pushed to work hard under pressure.
● Digitalization - Automation, telecommuting, digital workplace, and advanced tools
Today, many companies are technology-driven. With the latest technology at the workplace, it is possible to complete tasks faster and with less effort. Hard work has instead become smart work.
Employees can effortlessly connect with peers on the internet to discuss projects. This allows them to work efficiently with their superiors and complete tasks in less time.
Employees don’t have to be physically present in the office to complete tasks. They can work from remote locations to connect and share files with peers.
● Human resource support
The HR team supports employees and supports the organization’s policy and procedures. HR has become more attentive to employees and their lifestyles. They believe in offering a positive work environment to employees so they can perform better.
Today, HR policies are transparent and solution-oriented towards employees. This creates an open culture in the company and allows employees to share their views without retribution.
Five ways to make the workplace better for employees:
Encourage work-life balance
Add more social gathering events
Open doors of communication
Appreciate and recognize
Promote flexible work schedules
It is time for your company to celebrate Labor Day by making changes in HR policies. It is one of the great ways to connect with employees and create a positive work environment. Your efforts to make employee life better can increase productivity, promote company growth, and attract desirable employees.
P.S. The Vieras offer human resource services, administrative services, and safety and environmental services that can help you enhance your employee experience. So, without delay, contact us NOW.