Employee motivation is more critical to business than many believe. A motivated employee is aligned with the organization’s goals and is invested in its success. A demotivated individual, on the other hand, fritters time away at work, probably surfing the internet, running personal chores or even looking for another job. All this on your time and money.
If the idea of one demotivated employee is worrisome, imagine a few.
But what makes an employee feel demotivated? Even with the right monetary compensation and myriad benefits, if the employee doesn’t feel valued or believes that the organization offers little scope for professional growth, chances are employee morale will be down.
All is not lost, however. It doesn’t require a lot of effort or money to keep the mood upbeat. Here are a few ways:
#1 Lead By Example
As the founder or owner of the business, if you are happy and excited, chances are your infectious enthusiasm will be picked up by your people.
Also make sure people in leadership positions are able leaders, with empathy and people skills high on their abilities chart.
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#2 Recognition For Effort
Give every employee due to recognition. Not every project needs a pat on the back but letting employees know that their efforts are noticed and valued makes them feel like an integral part of the organization.
#3 Regular Rewards
Offer incentives and rewards for good performances. These don’t have to be expensive. You can present gift vouchers, tickets to movies, a day off, etc. Cash rewards also work quite effectively.
#4 Motivate individuals, Not Just Teams
Do not forget to identify and motivate individual performers. The team could be doing great as a unit, but there is often the one individual who tries harder, works smarter and performs better than the rest. Single this individual out and give him reasons to keep the momentum going.
#5 Create Opportunities For Further Growth
Employees are motivated when they see possibilities for career advancement and growth. Offer them training where they can develop skills to further their career. Give them opportunities to learn, allow them to take time off to study and assure them that your organization offers them plenty of scopes to further their career.
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#6 Stability To Encourage Productivity
Keep the company’s goal constant. Once employees are on track, do not derail them with a new direction or new ways of doing business. Knowing what they have to do and being able to do that encourages productivity which in turn increases employee satisfaction.
#7 Ensure Employee Satisfaction
Give your employees challenging projects and constantly push them to perform better. Create the right work environment that includes benefits over and above financial remuneration like child care facilities, employee discount programs at restaurants and stores etc.
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#8 Transparent Management
No games. Be clear about your policies with your employees. Share your company’s growth plan periodically.This builds trust and doesn’t allow the possibility of rumors or gossip.
#9 Regular Feedback And Two-Way Communication
Lastly, treat your people as critical members of the team. Give them a voice and a platform to be heard. Take their input and listen to their ideas on improving their work. Keep the channel of communication open and do not be a management-to-employees kind of an organization.
Keep your employees motivated, and you will see less attrition.Remember, happier employees make the best goodwill ambassadors for the company.
