How to Motivate Employees During Difficult Times
Different kinds of incentives motivate different types of individuals, but during difficult times, managers often have to find new ways of encouraging workers to maximize their performance levels. During periods of recession, fears of job losses, foreclosure and even political uncertainty can leave employees feeling unhappy, depressed and lacking in motivation. As a manager, you must find a way to help your employees get past the negative emotions that can stifle their productivity because motivated employees tend to work harder than unhappy ones.
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Instructions
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Set a good example. During difficult times, managers, as well as employees have to contend with increased levels of stress, but if you allow your anxiety to show, then you may create a negative work environment. Remain positive, and focus on working hard rather than engaging in discussions about problems that may or may not arise.
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Share stories of success. Recognize employees for performing well, and regularly thank your employees for all of the good work that they do. Focus on the good rather than the bad to foster a positive work environment.
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Award bonuses and prizes. If you have a large departmental budget, then you should share some of your department's financial success with your employees by awarding performance-related bonuses. If you have a limited budget, then you can reward good performers with small but inexpensive gifts.
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Make time for your employees. Use your time-management skills to good effect by incorporating time for one-on-one discussions with your employees into your weekly schedule. Address the concerns of employees honestly and frankly because employees tend to respect supervisors who are honest rather than managers who seem distant or secretive.
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Have fun. Try to arrange social gatherings outside of working hours so that you can build a sense of team unity. Maintain a professional distance and do not become too friendly with your employees, but show them that you can have fun.
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Tips & Warnings
During difficult economic times, sales revenues drop, and employees often become disheartened. Therefore, focus on achieving your most important goals rather than overloading your employees with multiple goals that may seem unattainable during difficult times.
When confronted with budget cuts, you must strike a balance between being honest and stirring up feelings of anxiety. Explain to your employees how budget cuts are necessary and can benefit the company and the employees in the long run. Do not take sides with the firm or the employees against one another, but instead try to remain neutral.
