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7 Ways to Inspire Employee Motivation

June 8, 2012

By: Omnia Group

Employee motivation is always worth the effort.  As a manager, it’s tempting to allow to fall by the wayside in this rough economy. You have bigger things to think about, like keeping your company above water!  Why should you have to worry about keeping your employees motivated? “These days, people should just feel lucky to have a job!”…right? But if you manage with this state of mind, your staff will be made up of people who ARE just lucky to have jobs. They show up (most of the time), they do the work (most of the time), and they have a good idea of what it takes NOT to get fired (most of the time). Your superstars will have moved on, and your potential superstars will be watching the clock by day and surfing employment sites by night.

The benefit to you of a rough economy is not that you don't have to put any effort into incentives and motivation -- it's that (when treated well) your employees are more invested in the success of your business than ever before. There is a sense of being “in this together.” People are more innovative and more open with their ideas. This means that well-motivated staff will put that extra effort into keeping you afloat and moving you ahead.

A person needs a job to survive. A person needs meaning to live. Make your employees' jobs meaningful to them, so they give it their all because they want to, not because they think they have to.

A little motivation goes a long way!

Not everyone is motivated by the same things, but here are some universals to let your staff know that you do appreciate them:

1. For a job well done, say “Thank you” and mean it.
2. Let people know specifically how their contributions are helping the company.
3. Talk to people, and listen, not necessarily just about work. Being seen as human is a pretty big deal to most folks.
4. Ask employees what would make their jobs better. They might surprise you! Get back to them about what is possible.
5. Let people know they are trusted and respected.
6. Allow them to use their strengths, and encourage growth: Let your best and brightest lead (or drag) you forward.
7. This should probably go without saying, but don't ever tell someone, “You’re just lucky to have a job!”

Omnia Group

For over 30 years, we’ve helped organizations across the world improve and optimize their workforce operations and company cultures. While we take a unique, scientific approach to hiring, development and retention, we also believe every business is a people business. Our passionate advisors always put people first.

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