Motivating Employees

With these economic challenges in our midst, many individuals are happy just to be working so they can continue to support themselves and their families. However, continuing to keep your employees motivated should still be foremost in your strategic goals of running your business.

As we all know, one employee motivator is compensation - it's one of the main elements an individual wants to know before accepting a position with an organization they are considering joining. New employees are keenly motivated by having a new job and the opportunity to apply their skills and credentials in order to prove themselves to their new boss. However, employees who are well entrenched in their position may be less inclined to apply themselves as much to their position and it's responsibilities. Therefore, money won't necessarily be the top motivator anymore.

Many employees are seeking out various methods to keep themselves enthusiastic and enlightened by their jobs. Employers will need to become more diligent in considering the following as motivational techniques:

• Goals - set goals for employees to strive for by ensuring they understand what is expected of them, what they are responsible for and how what they do adds value to the overall company
• Continuous improvement - employees who are given opportunity to continue their learning (on the job or by taking courses or attending seminars) are more likely to achieve their full potential, therefore motivating him/her to continue to strive towards new goals and aspirations
• Respect - treat your employees the same way you would want someone to treat you: be courteous, professional, considerate, and so forth
• Equality -ensure employees are treated equally regardless of their gender, marital status, job title and status, etc. Abide by the Employment Standards Act too avoid non-compliance issues
• Work challenges - employees need to be challenged in the work they are performing. If the work is very routine, it can become de-motivating and uninspiring, resulting in low morale and potentially increased turnover rates
• Tools and resources - make sure employees have all the necessary tools required to do their job effectively. Whether this involves supplying the latest in technology or simply a better work station with adequate lighting, it will go a long way for the employee
• Recognition - sometimes just a simple comment such as "Great job!" or "I appreciate your input and feedback" can go a long way. Make employees feel appreciated and valued for their efforts and opinions
• Making Decisions - afford employees the opportunity to share their opinions and have their voice heard. After all, these are the individuals who are supporting your company from the ground up and should be given a chance to share their viewpoints

The right person in the right job is the key to success for both the employer and employee. Many employees are self-motivating but the above suggestions may assist in giving a little boast to those that require it.  Implementing various retention and incentive programs within your workforce will assist in ensuring employees are maintaining a high level of motivation.

So, although receiving a salary, health benefits and vacation time off is sufficient motivation for some employees, in the long run consider what other options of inspiration you can provide your employees on a regular basis to help ensure they remain energized and enthusiastic about their work.

I'll leave you with one last thought.....honest and candid communication with employees can truly motivate an individual to be successful at what they do best.