Want to Motivate Your Employees? Follow These Tips
As any business owner knows, a company’s success is largely dependent upon its talent. This concept holds true for all industries and all kinds of companies, but it is critical that startups invest the time and resources into hiring the top talent, especially in the early stages of development when securing funds is pivotal for getting the business off the ground.
Hiring exceptional employees is only part of the battle, however. Once you’ve secured the top talent, it is your duty to retain your employees by encouraging them to always put forth their best work and making them feel valued. According to a 2015 SHRM Employee Job Satisfaction and Engagement survey, only 69 percent of employees reported consistently putting their full effort into their work. Here are some tips to bear in mind for motivating your employees.
Offer support
You should always be approachable to your employees, no matter how removed your position may be from that of those below you. This starts with being an excellent communicator and conveying company goals, ideas, and initiatives to your employees in a direct, face-to-face manner. The most effective companies are those that promote teamwork and work together as a unit, which will never be possible if your employees know you as little more than an email signature.
Promote office culture
Tricked-out office spaces like that of Silicon Valley companies aren’t enough to retain and motivate employees on their own, but it is important to be aware of the atmosphere your office conveys and actively promote a positive working space. Spread positive energy by maintaining an upbeat attitude around your employees and being flexible with their needs and interests. Be cognizant of work-life balance and allow for flexible working hours if possible. Organizing opportunities for employees to connect with you and each other is another great way to boost morale.
Be open to feedback
Being a founder or CEO does not, in any way, make you immune to criticism. In fact, an effective leader embraces criticism and values feedback from their employees as a way to improve their management style and the company as a whole. Companies with open-door policies report higher employee satisfaction and engagement. Establishing this foundation of trust goes a long way in garnering the best results.
Recognize accomplishments
A lack of encouragement is the biggest culprit of employee burnout, and it stems from not feeling valued. How will your employees truly know they are doing a good job if you never tell them so? Recognize exemplary work by highlighting accomplishments in meetings or simply approaching your employees individually to let them know you appreciate their work.
Set a positive example
After all is said in done, your employees will look to you for guidance and direction, so you need to practice what you preach. If you want your employees to work their absolute hardest and to be enthusiastic and passionate about company goals, then you need to adopt the same values. Lead by example, not by privilege or title.
