If you’re running a business or managing a team, you undoubtedly have plenty to keep you busy. Competition, consumer needs and P&L’s are all important, but so is employee retention. Guiding office morale directly impacts your bottom line and company productivity. Here are a few ways to keep your employees motivated, loyal and productive.
- It’s Simple: Be Kind
They say you catch more flies with honey than vinegar and being in a position of power doesn’t make that any less true. People need respect, whether they work above you, with you or below you. Use polite language and be respectful of their time to cultivate a welcoming and positive environment.
- Don’t Hog the Credit
Positive reinforcement is great encouragement. Never let a job well done slip by without a pat on the back or even public recognition every now and again. Team work is important and encouraging individual contributions can enhance the overall process and, even better, the output.
- Offer Job-Retention Incentives
This includes everything from bonuses to amenities, perks and benefits. Sure, not every company can afford Google-level amenities; opening a gym or daycare center in your office might be a stretch. But financial incentives, casual Fridays, extra-curricular social events and midday complimentary snacks to keep office energy high are small steps that can improve morale.
- Keep Communication Flowing
Communication is a key foundation to any relationship; business relationships are no exception. Engaging with each employee to keep the lines of communication open both ways is vital to successful interaction. It is your job to be consistently transparent about performance expectations so that everyone knows what is expected. Another important step is making sure your employees feel comfortable coming to you to discuss their career goals and concerns.
- Encourage Fun
What’s that saying about all work and no play? While it’s necessary to establish boundaries, making work fun can get the creative juices flowing. Productivity is known to spike when people are enjoying themselves.
Motivating your employees keeps them happy and less inclined to leave. Happy employees stay busy. Give your team gifts of acknowledgment, appreciation and freedom and you’ll get that back tenfold in productivity. And don’t forget: never under estimate the power of a 3pm snack cart rolling past your desk.
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Do you want to motivate and lead your staff more effectively? My executive coaching services can help you hone your leadership skills and clearly define your goals and objectives.