In this week's newsletter — how you can implement Nudge Theory in your workplace, new job postings from Betterment, Zapier, and more in our PeopleOps job board, and some interesting articles about HR/TA and HR Tech.
Also, have you checked out our HR Tech Buyers Community yet? We've been having many interesting discussions on there about the best tools for volume hiring, the best job portals in the USA, and more.
💭Thought Bubble: 'Nudging' Your Way To Happier Employees
Have you realized that when there is an additional cost for plastic bags at a store, you're less likely to purchase one, thereby unconsciously reducing plastic consumption? Or, when you buy a burger, you're more likely to buy fries and soft drinks when offered as a suggestion? These choices aren't random — they're designed to influence your behavior. And that's precisely what Nudge Theory is.
Based on behavioral science, Nudge Theory uses subtle suggestions or features to influence human behavior and decision-making. It was developed by American economist Richard Thaler and Harvard Law Professor Cass Sunstein. You can read more about it here.
According to Gallup’s State of the Global Workplace, only 15% of employees are engaged in the workplace. And yet, 71% of executives say that employee engagement is a critical contributor to their organization's success. The reality is that if HR leaders want to retain their workforce, they must find an effective solution to bridge this gap. And that's where Nudge Theory comes in.
According to the theory, HR leaders are choice architects that can design employees' decision-making processes and use positive reinforcement to encourage change, guiding them towards the most favorable outcome for your organization. When done right, it does not forbid any options nor take away the freedom of choice. It simply encourages employees to make healthier and better choices.
Here are a few ways you can implement Nudge Theory in your workplace:
To encourage your employees to eat healthier, you can keep healthy and nutritious snack options at easy reach and preferably at eye level.
One way to make meetings more engaging and enjoyable is by giving employees the freedom to choose the format and location. For instance, they can book a walking meeting, a meeting over lunch, or simply a quick video chat.
If your organization has a mentorship program, but the mentors aren't feeling motivated to do a good job, then motivational nudges in the form of a monetary bonus, extra paid leave, or a similar incentive can help.
If you want to increase employee enrollment in a particular scheme or benefit, providing them the opportunity to 'opt-out' rather than 'opt-in', offers a better chance of success.
A beautifully designed workplace promotes innovation, boosts productivity, and helps employees fall in love with the idea of coming to work. If possible, consider switching out drab, old-school workstations with a modern, light, and airy one.
There are many such simple and effective nudges that you can implement in your workplace to enable employees to make better choices. The key is to ensure they don't feel pressured into doing something they'd rather not and that they always have the option of opting out.
👨💻 Looking For A New Role?
Here are some amazing organizations that are looking for the next generation of People Leaders. Check out our job board for more such opportunities!
