The benefits of being at work need to be felt by employees to foster a thriving workplace. Leaders needs to question how employees feel when they come to work – does the culture make them want to stay, are they recognised for their good work and do they feel part of a team? Stephanie Poore, Managing Director, UK and Ireland from IFS, outlines how companies can make sure their employees are engaged.
Creating a vibrant and engaging work environment is essential for motivating employees and driving success. In today’s competitive world, it’s not just about hitting targets; it’s about building a culture where people feel valued and supported and part of the team. This is what transforms a company from good to great.
A thriving workplace doesn’t just celebrate those who are front and centre. While it’s easy to acknowledge visible successes – salespeople hitting targets, project managers delivering on time – real success comes from recognising everyone’s contributions. Ensuring all team members feel appreciated, including those in non-customer-facing roles like IT, HR and backend development, creates a more inclusive culture and boosts morale across the board.
Often, it’s the quieter wins that go unnoticed but make a real difference. A culture that celebrates every individual, from the most visible to the least, fosters a more motivated and engaged workforce. It’s about ensuring everyone feels their contribution is meaningful, regardless of their role.
Forging meaningful connections
Beyond recognition, fostering a sense of connection is essential for creating a thriving workplace. When employees feel part of something bigger than themselves, they work harder, communicate more openly and are more likely to stay with the business long-term.
One effective way to develop this connection is through group activities. Recently, an IFS team participated in a climb up Mt. Snowdon to support the IFS Foundation. The event raised over £25,000 for public health and education projects in Sri Lanka, while also strengthening team camaraderie and unity.
Activities like this are a reminder that work is not just about hitting targets but about building relationships and working together toward shared goals. Whether it’s through charity events, team-building exercises or social get-togethers, these moments of connection ingrain a sense of belonging that is crucial for long-term success.
Leadership’s impact on workplace culture
Leadership sets the tone for workplace culture. Leaders have the responsibility to create environments where people feel supported, engaged and recognised. This means being present, approachable and actively involved in the daily life of the company.
Implementing initiatives like ‘Feel Good Friday’, where different departments share their achievements, can create a culture where everyone feels valued and included. Leaders who are hands-on and accessible foster trust within their teams, while also inspiring a culture of transparency and open communication within which individuals feel comfortable speaking up. Whether this is to make their good ideas heard, or to share feedback on how to improve processes, this trust leads to better collaboration and a more motivated workforce.
People want to work for leaders who recognise their efforts and create space for their voices to be heard. It’s natural within any working environment that some voices will always be louder than others, but it’s important to recognise that volume is not always an indicator of passion and commitment, and sometimes the value of an individual can be overlooked if opportunities aren’t created for their voices to be heard. Leadership isn’t about sitting in an office making decisions – it’s about being part of the team and ensuring everyone feels they have an important role to play.
The power of inclusivity
Inclusion is not just a buzzword; it’s a core component of any thriving workplace. Building a culture that recognises and celebrates diversity means not just acknowledging different backgrounds and perspectives but actively incorporating them into the company’s operations.
When people feel included, they’re more likely to contribute their best ideas and feel invested in the success of the organisation. Inclusivity also means flattening hierarchies, ensuring that everyone – no matter their role or level – has a voice. This kind of environment fosters innovation and drives better business results because people feel safe to take risks and offer new ideas.
Creating a genuinely inclusive culture takes time and effort. It’s about being intentional in recognising people, celebrating successes and building connections within teams. By prioritising inclusivity, organisations can create workplaces where everyone feels they belong and are valued for what they bring to the table.
How to unlock the secrets to a thriving workplace
The key to a thriving workplace is balance. It’s about finding the right mix of personalisation, recognition and connection, all underpinned by strong leadership and an inclusive culture. The result is an environment where people want to be and are motivated to contribute their best work.
First, leaders need to make work personal and fun. Encouraging activities that break the routine and allow people to express themselves leads to a more engaged workforce. Whether it’s a themed dress-up day or a team challenge, these moments of levity create a more enjoyable work environment that motivates people to do their best.
Second, it’s vital to recognise everyone’s contributions. Celebrating success shouldn’t just be reserved for the most visible team members. When everyone’s efforts are acknowledged, it creates a culture of inclusivity and respect, which in turn drives higher levels of engagement and performance.
Finally, building a sense of connection within the team is critical. People who feel connected to their colleagues and share a common purpose are more likely to stick around, work harder, and contribute to the company’s long-term success. Leaders can further this connection by encouraging team-building activities, creating opportunities for people to collaborate and ensuring that everyone feels their voice is heard.
A thriving workplace doesn’t happen by accident but is the result of intentional effort, thoughtful leadership and a commitment to creating a culture that values every individual and fosters an environment in which people not only succeed but enjoy the process. In the end, a company is only as strong as its people, and people who are motivated, engaged and united naturally drive success.