The structure of a company is the most important factor of success in your business. Basically, your company’s structure can cause a lot of problems if it isn’t organized the right way. Therefore, if your company is struggling, the problem may be because of poor organization.
Below, we’ve compiled a list of common signs to look out for, as well as how to fix them. Keep reading to find out how you can improve your company!
Signs Your Company Structure Isn’t Working & How to Improve It
Poor Communication
Poor communication in a business often comes from poor organization between departments. For example, if a product or service is changed and your company doesn’t have a clear chain of communication, certain departments might not even be notified of the change. If you’ve noticed cross-departmental miscommunications or employees not informed about certain things, it’s a clear sign you may need to make some structural changes.
One way to fix poor communication in your company is to have regular meetings within each department, as well as between departments. This ensures that each employee is aware of any company updates, changes, or other important information. Additionally, implementing communication technology within your business makes it easier to communicate important information promptly.
Low Productivity
A drop in productivity could mean you have some issues with organizational structure. Often, low productivity is a result of miscommunication or low morale. For example, if communication isn’t streamlined effectively, an employee could receive contradicting direction from two different superiors. As a result, the employee may have to stall a task until he or she receives further clarification. Likewise, if employees have low morale and seem unmotivated to do work, their productivity will decrease.
To improve productivity, then, it’s important to improve communication, as discussed above. However, improving morale takes it to a new level. Perhaps you can initiate monthly team-building exercises. For example, why not take your employees to a local restaurant’s happy hour, book a few hours in an escape room, or take a painting class? The possibilities are endless! Believe it or not, fun activities improve relationships between coworkers, which in turn boosts communication and improves morale. As a result, productivity can be improved.
Uneven Work Loads
If your business is not organized at an optimal level, employees can take on uneven workloads. Often, this can result in overworked employees. Therefore, it’s important to see how much work each person is assigned, as well as how much they are completing. Then, you can organize and delegate tasks more efficiently, balancing the workload equally between employees.
The best way to do this is by implementing software that organizes these tasks for you, such as Asana. Organization tools such as these actually improve communication, productivity, and help to balance workloads between employees!
Low Retention
Interestingly, studies show that about 60% of workers are either actively looking for a new job or are willing to leave their job. While there are many factors that affect employee retention, one major one is the organizational structure of a company.
Basically, if your company feels disorganized to employees, chances are they will get frustrated with your business. With poor structure, employees often don’t feel as though they are an important contribution to your company. Therefore, when you optimize organization structures, listen to your employees, and improve morale, turnover will decrease.
Outdated Systems
An answer to all of your organizational struggles could be to simply update your software systems. Moreover, perhaps installing some organizational software will help.
One of the easiest ways to fix outdated systems is to hire a firm to do it for you. Basically, these companies find the areas in your business that need to be improved. For example, On The Mark is a design firm that helps businesses modernize their operating models, increasing organizational structure.
Start Improving Your Company Structure Today!
If your company is struggling, no need to fear! If you struggling with any of the above issues, chances are, you simply need to improve your business organization. Start implementing these simple suggestions today to optimize your company’s structure!
Guest post courtesy of Emily Bosak
