Featured image by Yan Krukau

Treating your team well isn’t just good for morale; it’s good for business, too.

In today’s world, it is easy to view the well-being of your employees as a bonus instead of an essential to your business. But the truth is, how you treat your team has a direct impact on how your business performs. When people feel appreciated and supported at work, they show up more engaged, more productive, and more committed. That energy spreads — to coworkers, to customers, and yes, even to your bottom line.

 

Happy Teams Work Harder (and Smarter)

People do better work when they feel good about where they work. That’s not just a nice idea, it’s backed by data. According to Gallup’s State of the Global Workplace report, organizations with high employee engagement see 23% higher profitability. Engaged employees are more focused, make fewer mistakes, and are more likely to go the extra mile when it counts.

Look at Google. They’ve built a reputation for taking care of their people, from wellness programs to flexible schedules. And it’s not just about perks, it’s about creating an environment where people feel trusted. That kind of culture is one reason why Google continues to lead the way in innovation.

 

Less Turnover, Fewer Headaches

Hiring new employees isn’t just time-consuming; it’s expensive. The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) estimates the average cost-per-hire is around $4,700, and that doesn’t even count the time it takes someone to fully get up to speed.

But here’s the good news: when people feel respected, they’re more likely to stick around. Southwest Airlines is a great example. Their culture of appreciation and open communication has led to some of the lowest turnover rates in their industry. In fact, 85% of their employees say they’re proud to work there. That kind of loyalty helps things run smoothly for both the team and the customers.

Another key to a strong team is open communication and ongoing support. NISM’s blog Social Media Project Managers: Effective Steps To Get Your Team On The Same Page highlights how clear communication, defined roles, and ongoing training help teams stay aligned and work more effectively together.

 

A Supportive Culture Fuels Ideas

When people feel safe and supported, they’re more likely to speak up, share ideas, and take creative risks. That’s how real innovation happens, not in fear-based environments, but in places where everyone feels like their voice matters.

Salesforce is a great example. The company ranks high in employee satisfaction and is often praised for its inclusive culture. Leaders there encourage transparency and honest conversations, which gives everyone permission to contribute. That mindset has helped Salesforce stay ahead in a competitive industry by continuing to evolve and grow.

 

Customers Feel the Difference, Too

It’s not just employees who benefit from a healthy workplace; customers do, too. When team members enjoy their work, it shows in how they interact with others.

Take Chick-fil-A. They’re not only known for their food but also for how their employees treat customers. That level of care comes from a culture that values kindness, growth, and personal development. Employees are encouraged to serve with heart, and customers notice. It’s a reminder that when you treat your team well, they pass that positivity along.

 

Business Success Stories: Proving It Works!

Several companies have shown that investing in employees leads to better results across the board. Here are a few worth mentioning:

• Costco has a reputation for paying above-average wages and offering strong benefits. Their investment in employees has paid off, they see lower turnover and higher productivity, and they consistently rank high in customer satisfaction and overall performance.

• Patagonia takes things even further, offering flexible work schedules, onsite childcare, and opportunities for employees to get involved in environmental activism. These benefits reflect their values and help create a strong sense of purpose among the team. That kind of alignment builds trust, inside the company and with loyal customers, too.

• Chick-fil-A focuses on servant leadership and prioritizes employee development. Their team-first approach has played a big part in their success as one of the most profitable fast-food chains in the U.S.

 

Challenges Social Media Marketers Face and Where to Start

Social media marketing teams often juggle unique challenges that can impact their well-being and productivity. According to NISM’s 2024 Job Study, the top challenges professionals face include having too much work with not enough time and others outside the team not understanding the scope and value of their work.

Other common struggles are keeping up with fast-changing trends and platforms, staying respected as professionals, and adapting to constant algorithm changes.

These challenges highlight key areas where leaders can focus support, by helping teams manage workload, improving communication across departments, and investing in ongoing training to keep skills sharp. Tackling these can not only boost morale but also improve overall team performance and job satisfaction.

 

So, What’s the Takeaway?

Caring about your people isn’t just the right thing to do, it’s also smart business. When you invest in your team, you’ll see better performance, stronger culture, and happier customers. It’s all connected.

If you’re leading a team, now’s a great time to ask: What can we do to support our people better? Whether it’s offering more flexibility, celebrating wins, or just listening more intentionally, small shifts can make a big difference.

At the end of the day, people are the heart of every organization. When we treat them like it, everyone wins.

 

Author Bio:

Alexis Barth is a freelance marketer originally from Kearney, Nebraska, now based in Ohio. She earned her degree in marketing from Cedarville University and launched her own marketing company, REAL Marketing, during her senior year in 2024. Specializing in social media management and strategy, she works with a variety of clients to help them grow their presence and connect with the right audiences. She was a past intern with the National Institute for Social Media, where she began working toward her Social Media Strategist certification. She believes great marketing is really just about understanding people—and making the right connections that leave everyone better off.