Checklist: Motivate Your Employees

By: Rachel Slagle
February 2nd, 2011

A happy employee works harder than an unhappy one. To get the most out of your employees, you need to find out what motivates them to perform better or to not become complacent.

Here are some ways you can get your employees excited about coming to work:

• Get to know your employees. Look at each employee as an individual and make an effort to get to know them. Know their name and position within the company. Employees feel valued when you know who they are.

• Be part of the team. Walk around the office or the warehouse and get involved. Give your star workers a pat on the back as they work. But be careful to not be overbearing and appear as though you’re breathing down their necks. If you have ideas on how a worker can improve, make sure you make your suggestions in private.

• Take active steps to fix complaints. Whether it’s the building or boredom, if it seems to be an issue for the majority of your employees, it’s time for a change. Show your employees that you hear their concerns by taking action immediately if possible.

• Use their goals as incentives. Reward your employees for their hard work. Whether it’s a raise, a promotion or more responsibility, they need to know that they’re working toward something.

• Give public praise. Create recognition programs and practices that give hardworking employees company-wide recognition.

• Put some fun into your team. Create a company culture that makes your employees want to be part of the team. Organize some team building events such as company picnics, sporting events or lunches. This will produce a sense of commitment and loyalty to their new workplace “family.”

• Give them ownership. Create an environment where employees feel comfortable sharing their ideas. If the idea is logical, give them the responsibility of carrying it out. By showing that you have confidence in them, they will feel compelled to prove you right.

• Share your opinion. Be honest with your employees. Kindly express your opinion. Be straight and open with each employee about your expectations of them and how it’s going to contribute to your company’s goals.

• Provide feedback. Many people enjoy getting feedback because it lets them know whether they’re on the right track. Establish mentoring and review sessions so that your employees know where they stand.

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