10 Ways the CEO Can Reduce Office Stress

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How a CEO can Reduce Office Stress: Focus on Time Management

Employees that struggle with time management don't only stress themselves out but they stress out their colleagues when they miss their deadlines and hold-up projects. Scott points to an organizational method designed by David Allen, called Getting Things Done. "Employing his time management techniques can increase productivity and focus, but more important, reduce stress," says Scott.

Another suggestion: Don't forget those workshops. Bringing in an expert to look at what areas people need to change and where systems can be improved can make a big difference. "It's not one size fits all. Different companies may have different needs and an expert can identify those needs," Scott says. "Particularly experts can help you identify what part of the day you're most productive and suggest that you tackle big task during that time and leave lighter tasks for when your focus is low." She also points to an iPhone and iPad app called Toodledo. The app allows one to create simple to-do lists but also organize tasks and reminders into priority, folders, context, and status. It's possible to use the app to sync up with co-workers to manage a project, says Scott.

Dig Deeper: 15 Ways to be More Productive


How a CEO can Reduce Office Stress: Minimize Tech Meltdowns

Anybody who has owned a computer knows how frustrating it can be when it's not working properly, causing you to lose data and slow your work pace. Making sure your office computers are up to date, armed with the latest firewalls and security software, data recovery systems, and peripherals, is one way to zap office stress before it even starts. Employees should never have to deal with a computer meltdown themselves. With the exception of perhaps the smallest tech start-ups, staff should be tasked to handle problems quickly and effectively, and should make themselves readily available for questions or concerns.

Dig Deeper: Time to Try Online Back-up for Your PCs

How a CEO can Reduce Office Stress: Provide Ample Vacation Time

It's not enough to provide employees with ample vacation time but you must also encourage them to actually take the time off. "Employees actually think that they are helping the company by not taking vacation time but actually they are hurting the company," says Scott. Studies have show that workers that take vacation are healthier, more productive human beings. "It doesn't really count when people take vacations and bring work with them. That's not really a break," Scott says. She suggests that bosses not infringe on worker's vacation time by calling them, e-mailing them, or sending them work. Today's technologies make it so hard to leave work at work, but it's necessary for maintaining sanity.

Scott suggests that workers that can't get away on a real vacation plan staycations or playcations. Staycations are when you plan to stay at home and just relax; a playcation is when you plan fun events and outings in and around your city. Another suggestion: have vacation days rollover, says Scott, and consider flexible hours that allow workers to start work anytime between 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. as long as they work eight hours. "People are happier when they feel more in control of their schedule," Scott says.

Dig Deeper: Time-Out


How a CEO can Reduce Office Stress: Recognize Achievements

As CEO you've probably heard it a million times, but recognizing achievements actually does make the entire office happier. People not only like to know that they've done well but they want their colleagues to know it too. Likewise, they want to show support and gratitude when their colleagues succeed. Scott says beyond recognizing employees individually for their successes, it's a good idea to create an office newsletter where achievements can be announced on a weekly or monthly basis. The newsletter can be used to highlight the best ideas and announce when goals have been met. "I keep bringing up this newsletter," Scott jokes, "but really, they are a great ways to build communication and bring people together."

Dig Deeper: Employee Reward and Recognition Systems


How a CEO can Reduce Office Stress: Make Room for Fun

Last, but certainly not least, don't leave out the fun stuff that builds connections and bonds between you and the staff. Office parties, sponsored lunches, sports pools, and athletic leagues: these are all the types of things that make work more than just a duty. "Social groups, such as book clubs, make everyone friendlier, social and relaxed," says Scott. "They help build friendships and promote sharing." Another suggestion: Invest in programs that build community, such as a volunteer program that takes place once a quarter.

Scott suggests that CEO plan surprises for the staff, such as an unexpected day off or sponsored lunch, as well as plan events that employees can look forward to. "I'm an advocate of hosting events on Monday," says Scott. "Sometimes you need to bring a little bit of Friday into your Monday."

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Nicole Marie Richardson is the executive editor for special projects at Inc.com. She manages the website's largest projects, including the Inc. 5000, an annual list of the fastest-growing, privately-held companies in America. @nicole_marie79