What do you think makes a happy working environment? Share your views with Xero and you could win a £100 Apple voucher. NOW CLOSED

[AnnMumsnet]

Xero, an app for small businesses that makes managing finances easy, wants to know what you think makes a happy working environment.

If you run a business – or if you've ever thought about doing so – what would you do to make it happy? What does your employer do that makes you happy in the workplace? And if you're not working at the moment, what do you think would make you happy at work now?

Maybe it's flexible working hours, the best technology, great relationships with your work mates or the freedom to get creative.

Here is what they say: "At Xero, we believe a happy business is a beautiful thing. So we've launched the Business of Happiness project to help define what makes a business happy, championing those who are doing it well and supporting those who need a helping hand."

Please share your thoughts on this thread. Every MNer who posts a comment will be entered into a prize draw, where one MNer will win a £100 Apple voucher, which can be used at an Apple Retail Store or in the Apple Online Store.

Find out more about Xero's Business of Happiness campaign here.

Standard Insight T&Cs apply. Note, anon comments may be used by Xero on their website and on social media.

Thanks and good luck!
MNHQ

In my experience, it's a combination of a good relationship with colleagues, satisfaction with the work itself and the possibility of progress up the career ladder too.

I think getting along with your co-workers makes a good environment. You enjoy being there. I am lucky in that way, my co-worker has become such a great friend.

Work life balance. Even companies that say they do this are just not flexible for working parents or even someone who isn't a parent. Lucky for me I have a flexible Manager but on other departments that is not the case

An inclusive environment - without the usual office politics, gossip and bitchiness.

A good mix of people - not all too similar.

Comfortable environment - comfy seating, air conditioning, working/quality equipment from the computer to the kettle.

And the big one - EFFECTIVE management who know how to motivate and encourage rather than just reprimand.

Being challenged to learn and develop new skills, but without feeling constantly under pressure. Feeling like you're part of the business' identity, and not just some machine. And having a good balance between work and socialising.

Feeling valued and that your opinions matter. Job security knowing you have a job for the foreseeable future and that you are not going to be penalised for part time or family friendly hours. The occasional thank you and well done goes a long way. It's also a happy environment when everyone is treated fairly and politics do not come into the equation. Most of all it helps if you like what you are doing and who you are working with.

Good relationships between works colleagues, small gestures from managment and praise when things are done well!

The people who work with you create the kind of environment it is. Working with people who realise team work is important and don't think they are above anyone else is key to me. When team work falls apart, so does the happy work environment.

Feeling respected, listened to and valued

surround yourself with good, positive people and don't take on any negativity - shake it off instantly!

simply flexibliltiy

I think if you have an understanding boss, flexible hours, time off in school holidays. Communication is most important

I think the most important thing is good working relationships with colleagues.

Being treated with respect, and being appreciated for the effort you put in. x

Relaxed but professional environment, investment in good training and development. A feedback and coaching culture.

Good relationships with colleagues are key to workplace happiness. Of course when working with the general public there's little that can take away the pain of that...

No one ever says thank you where I work. We work an extra 1 or 2 hours a day, late evenings, nights, weekends and no one ever says thanks. It would make a huge difference. And raise morale more then the bosses would ever know.

Sociable colleagues and flexible working conditions are the key.

Respect, equality, good teamwork

Respect your work colleagues, be it cleaner to chairman. Everybody deserves the same respect.

Respect and honesty. Plus plenty of tea and biscuits!!

I'd love management to not deliberately make life more awkward. To treat us like adults who are capable of doing the job we are paid to do. Thanks and acknowledgement that we're doing a great job.

• Decent pay - being valued/appreciated
• Flexible hours where possible
• not being micromanaged

Having your own space

Staff being paid 'at least' living wage' less form filling. More staff to do the things we are asked to do. Better training. Sick pay.