Amidst widespread layoffs at startup companies, one question arises: how can the quality of the workforce be improved? Layoffs or terminations of employment often reduce the number of employees in various divisions. Consequently, work that was previously carried out simultaneously by many people must now be done more optimally with fewer personnel.
Apart from the issue of layoffs, the quality of a startup’s workforce is crucial because it determines the company’s productivity. There are several factors that can affect employee productivity, such as the level of work difficulty, personal and professional relationships between employees, company culture, and the number of human resources.
Also read: Advantages of the Transformational Leadership Style in Startups
So, what are the ways to improve the quality of a startup’s workforce? Let’s explore the full explanation below!
1. Set Clear Targets and Goals
Companies that operate aimlessly will undoubtedly cause their employees to lose their way. Therefore, it is important for startups to set clear targets and define their business goals. These targets and objectives need to be communicated to the company’s workforce. Additionally, companies should include job descriptions, benchmarks, deadlines, targets, and, of course, employee salaries in contracts agreed upon by workers and companies before they start working. The ideal contract is one that benefits both the company and the workforce, motivating employees to contribute optimally in the workplace.
Also read: 7 Role of Entrepreneurs in the Indonesian Economy
2. Give Employees Space to Be Creative
How to Improve Employees Quality of Work
The startup work culture differs significantly from that of conventional corporations. A startup’s workforce needs more space and freedom to be creative to maximize their abilities. Of course, this freedom is limited in the sense that creativity is allowed as long as work is completed on time. This approach is also very suitable for the post-pandemic world, where many companies implement work-from-home or hybrid systems.
Also read: 7 Roles and Responsibility of a CEO in a Company
3. Provide Awards or Incentives Based on Achievement
Nothing motivates a person more than incentives for exceptional performance. Offering incentives creates a climate of healthy competition and can increase employee productivity. With a reward system like this, employees will be more motivated to improve their work performance and demonstrate their abilities. If targets are met or exceeded, do not hesitate to provide awards, such as bonuses, training, or educational scholarships. In addition to boosting productivity, this will also encourage employees to stay with the company longer.
Also read: What Does A Venture Capitalist Do? 7 Things You Need to Know
4. Ensure Workplace Security
Without job security guarantees, employees will be in a vulnerable position, lacking the motivation to achieve their goals. There are two types of security to consider at work: physical security and mental security. Physical security can be provided through modern facilities or equipment, good air quality, and buildings that are suitable and safe for use. Meanwhile, mental security can be ensured by celebrating team successes, building mutual trust between colleagues and superiors, and engaging in regular dialogues to achieve mutual success.
Also read: What is Startup Founder, Definition and Roles
5. Provide Health Services
Health is a valuable asset for everyone, including workers in startup companies. Healthy employees work more effectively and are more productive. To promote employee health, companies can offer fitness facilities, regular recreational activities, and nutritional improvements.
Also read: 8 Ways to Increase Startup Employee Productivity
6. Offer Continuous Training
How to Improve Employees Quality of Work
The training mentioned here is not intended to exhaust employees but rather to help them maximize their potential in performing more specialized tasks according to their expertise. Companies can invest in or finance employees’ education or enrollment in specialization courses through scholarship programs. This way, employees can continue to develop and acquire new knowledge and skills that can enhance their work at a higher level.
Also read: 5 Reasons Why Startup Businesses Can Grow Quickly
7. Manage Employees Effectively
Effective employee management plays a critical role in the quality of a company’s workforce. This encompasses various aspects, including recruitment, evaluation, compensation, training and development, employee relations, problem-solving, and occupational health and safety. All of the aforementioned activities are essential for companies, particularly in the realm of human resources, as they can have a positive impact, from increasing profits and competitiveness to accelerating goal achievement.
Also read: 7 Ways to Retain Potential Employees for Companies
In conclusion, these are the seven ways to enhance the quality of a startup’s workforce. Remember, employees are an asset to the company, so careful attention should be paid to every aspect that surrounds them. To gain a deeper understanding of employee management, you can download ASEAN’s Growth & Scale Talent Playbook. This report can serve as a guide for founders in recruiting and retaining a high-quality workforce for their company. Don’t hesitate, download it now!
