How to Get Subordinates to Achieve Peak Performance
It's all in the personality. Think back to the greatest boss you ever had. Was it his work ethic that made you try hard to impress him? Was it his discipline, charm or intelligence? What probably got you motivated was a combination of feeling valued as an employee, and being recognized for your accomplishments, no matter how small. As a boss yourself, you want your subordinates to work hard--not because they have to, but because they want to do well. Choosing great people when you are hiring will set the stage for success. Once you have your people, devising a plan for the workplace that gives your workers freedom to be creative, dignity and responsibility will have your business humming along merrily. Here are some tips.
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Instructions
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Carefully screen those you hire, to make sure you're getting people with the qualifications you need for the job. If you want to achieve maximum performance from a worker, you'll get a good idea from the interview about the attitude of your potential employee. Check those references. If you start by hiring a high-achiever, you're already ahead of the game.
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Encourage input. Tell your employees that it takes a crew of people to run an efficient ship, and all the people's voices are important. You can set up a suggestion box, or let your subordinates know that they should feel free to come to you and talk about anything that would improve their position, your relationship with them or the company's progress.
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Use incentives. Dinners, movie tickets, gift certificates, employee of the month, special parking spots--all of these are useful as prizes for subordinates who achieve or surpass company goals for the month.
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Be flexible. If you have an employee who is working extremely hard for you overall, and who wants to go on her daughter's field trip, by all means, let her enjoy doing this without a penalty! An employee who is devoted to the company won't work less hard if given flexibility with work hours--in general, an employee will work extra hours knowing they have the freedom to experience important events in their personal life.
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Pay a competitive salary and offer benefits. A subordinate will work well if they feel they're making the money they deserve for the job done. Re-evaluate every six months for pay raises or bonuses for your high-achievers, if feasible. Your commitment to them lets your people know that you value their time and dedication.
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Be the kind of boss you always wish you'd had. Create an office environment that is relaxed, joyful and fun. Leave your office door open, get to know your people, find similarities, and enjoy your time together. Kindness and caring for each individual will go a long way. When people like you, they will go out of their way to work hard for you--not because they're getting paid, but because of who you are.
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Tips & Warnings
Bring in a motivational speaker, to really get your employees excited about working hard!
