What’s the most important tool your employees have at their disposal?
Talent? Experience? Among the many desirable traits workers may possess, motivation is the magic ingredient for extraordinary results. From greater productivity to stronger recruitment, improved retention, and decreased absenteeism, a highly motivated workforce makes every company more powerful.
If you’re in a leadership position, you have the ability to inspire motivation in your employees through your words and actions, encouraging peak performance.
Implement these six best practices to build a highly motivated workforce that’s driven to succeed.
1. Communicate a meaningful vision.
Everyone wants to feel that their efforts have significance. No matter what your company does or what industry you’re in, infuse the culture with meaning. Studies show that people who have a sense of purpose are more focused, creative, and resilient, so remind your employees of the valuable role they play in your organization’s success. Communicate the company’s vision in a way that makes it come to life in the hearts and minds of your workforce. This will help everyone realize that they’re part of something very special.
2. Support their development.
Insecure managers fear being overshadowed by exceptional people. Strong leaders, on the other hand, seek out superior performers. Find out what makes each of your team members tick—what aspects of their jobs they enjoy most, where their interests lie, and what their career aspirations are. Some employees may simply want to become more proficient at their current jobs, while others will be motivated by the possibility of doing something more interesting or challenging in the future. When you learn about your employees’ goals and help them develop in their desired direction, you stand to benefit as well.
3. Demonstrate respect by actively listening.
Great managers are also great listeners. They welcome ideas, encourage honest communication, and value input from others. Your team members are sure to be more invested in the organization when they know they’re being heard. When people are sharing their thoughts, give them your undivided attention and ask follow-up questions to demonstrate that you’re paying attention. Keep an open mind and respond thoughtfully to what they’re saying.
4. Lead with autonomy.
Micromanagement fosters frustration. Strong leaders strike a delicate balance between guiding employees and respecting their competence to do their jobs without constant supervision. When people know you trust them to deliver high-caliber results, they will be motivated to work harder and put forth their best effort. Expect the best and you’re bound to get it.
5. Support employee wellbeing.
When people are feeling tired or overwhelmed, they won’t produce their best work no matter how hard they try. Take a comprehensive approach to wellbeing by addressing mental, emotional, and physical health with offerings that cater to a diverse set of needs. Strive to normalize psychological and physical wellness, remove the stigma attached to mental health, and embed wellbeing initiatives throughout the organization. It’s the best way to keep your team members healthy, happy, and at the top of their game.
6. Show your appreciation.
By creating a culture of recognition, you can effectively produce a sense of optimism and trust among your employees. Rewards are helpful motivators but don’t assume they have to be extravagant. Gift cards, time off, and hand-written thank you notes can all be effective gestures of gratitude. If you want to encourage your employees to go the extra mile, a little appreciation offered consistently can go a long way.
As a manager, your actions set the tone for your workforce. You’re responsible for creating a positive team atmosphere that encourages and motivates. By taking the right approach, you can be the catalyst for robust employee engagement and enviable retention.
Inspire your team members to reach their full potential. The HR Team has decades of experience helping leaders excel in their roles. Please contact us to learn more.
About The HR Team: Founded in 1996, The HR Team is a Maryland-based human resources outsourcing firm committed to developing strategic, customized solutions that respond to the unique needs and cultures of organizations of all types and sizes. Available as a one-source alternative to an in-house HR department or on an à la carte project basis, the company’s flexible service models address the full spectrum of HR needs that many organizations struggle to address. The HR Team helps clients achieve their highest level of success by providing value-driven human resources services that leave them time to focus on what they do best: directing business growth and profitability. Headquartered in Columbia, Maryland, the firm serves all of Maryland, Washington, DC, and Virginia. To learn more about The HR Team, call 410.381.9700 or visit https://www.thehrteam.com/.
