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Celebrating International Week of Happiness at Work

​The International Week of Happiness at Work is a globally recognised event that highlights the significance of creating a joyful and fulfilling workplace.This celebration isn't just about colourful balloons and office parties—it's about fostering an environment where employees feel valued, motivated, and genuinely happy to come to work each day. In this article, we’ll explore why happiness at work is crucial and provide practical tips on how employers and managers can celebrate and enhance happiness in their workplaces.​Why is Happiness at Work Important? Increased Productivity Research consistently shows that happier employees are more productive. A positive work environment boosts morale, leading to increased motivation and efficiency. Happy employees are more engaged, less likely to take sick days, and more inclined to go the extra mile. Enhanced Employee Retention A workplace that prioritises happiness tends to have lower turnover rates. When employees feel appreciated and satisfied, they are more likely to stay with the company, reducing recruitment and training costs for employers. Improved Mental Health Promoting happiness at work also has significant benefits for employees' mental health. A supportive and positive work environment can reduce stress and prevent burnout, leading to a healthier, more balanced life for employees. Better Team Collaboration Happiness creates a sense of camaraderie and teamwork. Employees who are happy at work are more likely to collaborate effectively, share ideas, and support one another, leading to a more innovative and successful company. ​How to Celebrate the International Week of Happiness at Work Here are some actionable tips to help you celebrate this important week and promote happiness in your workplace: 1. Recognise and Appreciate Take time to recognise and appreciate your employees' hard work. Whether it's through verbal acknowledgement or formal rewards, showing gratitude to your employees can significantly boost morale. 2. Create a Positive Environment Ensure that your workplace is welcoming and comfortable. Invest in good lighting, ergonomic furniture, and add some greenery to create a pleasant atmosphere. A clean, well-organised workspace can greatly impact an employee's mood and productivity. 3. Encourage Work-Life Balance Promote a healthy work-life balance by offering flexible working hours, remote work options, and encouraging regular breaks. Support your employees in maintaining a healthy balance between their professional and personal lives. 4. Offer Professional Development Opportunities Invest in your employees' growth by providing opportunities for professional development. This could include training sessions, workshops, or even funding for further education. When employees feel that they are growing and advancing in their careers, it increases job satisfaction. 5. Host Fun Activities Organise activities that allow employees to unwind and have fun. This could be anything from team-building exercises, office games, or social events. These activities can strengthen bonds between colleagues and create a more enjoyable work environment. 6. Listen and Act Create way for employees to voice their opinions and concerns. Regular feedback sessions and surveys can provide valuable insights into what makes your employees happy and what could be improved. Be sure to act on their feedback to show that their voices are heard and valued. ​Conclusion The International Week of Happiness at Work is a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the importance of creating a happy workplace and to take actionable steps towards achieving it. By promoting happiness at work, employers can foster a more productive, engaged, and fulfilled workforce. Remember, a happy employee is not just an asset to the company; they are the heart and soul of an organisation. Celebrate this week by making lasting changes that prioritise employee happiness, and watch your workplace transform for the better.​Are you looking to strengthen your team with top-tier finance and accountancy professionals? At Sharp Consultancy, we excel in connecting your business with exceptional talent for temporary, interim, or permanent roles. With our well-established offices in Leeds and Sheffield, our experienced consultants are dedicated to serving businesses across Yorkshire and beyond. Don't leave your recruitment needs to chance—contact us TODAY and let's find the perfect candidates to drive your business forward.​Resources:Happiness at Work - International Week of Happiness at Work

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Karen Pitchforth
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Karen Pitchforth

Business Manager

With over two decades of recruitment experience, Karen Pitchforth stands as an established professional in the industry. Currently serving as a Business Manager and Interim Specialist at Sharp Consultancy, Karen has dedicated 11 years to the company, showcasing her commitment and expertise.

Karen's recruitment journey began with placing Locum GPs, transitioning to managing a commercial branch for a local franchise of a national recruitment group for two years. In 2006, she ventured into Financial recruitment, joining a national recruitment business as a Senior Interim Consultant. Karen's relentless drive saw her rise to the position of Business Manager within seven years. The arrival of her first child marked a new chapter, prompting her move to Sharp Consultancy, where she initially covered the West Yorkshire region. Three years ago, she relocated to the South Yorkshire office to develop the senior interim offering.

Karen specialises in the Senior Interim Finance market, working with candidates who are part-qualified, fully qualified, or qualified by experience. Her expertise spans a wide array of roles from Assistant Accountant all the way up to Finance Director. Operating from Sheffield, Karen's coverage extends across the South Yorkshire region, reaching as far north as Barnsley and down to Nottinghamshire. She also serves areas across Hull, Doncaster, Lincoln, Worksop, Chesterfield, and Rotherham.

Karen's friends describe her as supportive, outgoing, and loyal—qualities that undoubtedly translate into her professional life. Outside of work, she enjoys an active lifestyle filled with walking and cycling. Notably, she completed the Yorkshire 3 Peaks in 2023. Family camping trips, motorbike outings with her partner, and indulgent visits to the spa or salon are among her favourite pastimes. Karen is also deeply involved in her community, organising fundraising events as the Chair of the 'Friends of' group for her children's school. Additionally, she has served as a parent-elected Governor for nearly three years, showcasing her dedication to supporting education and community development.

Karen Pitchforth is not just a recruiter but a trusted partner committed to finding the perfect fit for both candidates and clients. Her authoritative and professional approach ensures high-quality results and long-standing relationships.

Karen enjoying cycling and walking with family and an unwind at a Spa day
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    ​Karen, Stuart and Colin at Sharp have worked tirelessly to place me in the right position, considering me with everything that might be appropriate!

    Craig
    Craig
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    ​Karen was extremely helpful and proactive in securing my placement for me. She was very knowledgeable about her client and also went to great lengths to ensure that I was prepared for the meetings I had with them before they offered me a contract. She was always accessible and I never felt that she was rushing me. Her insights to the client and the sort of person that they were looking for were also essential in me securing this role. The manner and politeness of all staff I have spoken with over recent months has been exemplary.

    Ian
    Ian
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    I am so grateful for this opportunity thanks to Karen and the team. It is going well and the company is one of the best I have ever worked for. ​

    Iman
    Iman