Ways a Manager Can Motivate an Employee
The daily grind of employee work is what keeps companies running. An unmotivated staff can reduce sales, customer satisfaction and productivity. Keeping employees motivated can be a challenge for managers, but it is essential to reduce turnovers and retain preferred staff members. It may require less effort than you think to motivate an employee, and the returns on your efforts will benefit the organization.
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Bonuses
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Ultimately, money will always be a primary motivating factor. If your company can afford it, offering bonuses to employees who achieve certain goals will motivate them to continue working proficiently. Offer frequent bonuses, ideally monthly, to maintain employee motivation. Ensure the goals you set are obtainable, but challenging. Then, set aside money in your budget for bonuses. High returns on investment on the money result from bonuses, as can improve departmental results and productivity.
Flexible Work Schedule and Comp Time
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Often, employees desire more control over work hours. Allowing employees to work alternative hours, offsite hours and extra hours for overtime gives them incentive to work harder. Offer these benefits as a reward for a job well done. If you notice an employee investing extra hours while consistently producing quality work, give them an extra paid day off during down time. Create a policy whereby employees who prove their value to the organization can work from home one day a month, within the constrains of your company's needs.
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Recognition and Contests
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Everyone loves recognition for a job well done. Motivate your staff through encouragement and praise when they perform above satisfaction. Thank your employees for their dedication and make them feel they are part of your company's success. For employees with performance ratings measured by results, such as sales, hold contests and offer substantial and appealing rewards, such as travel vouchers, to winners.
Building a Team Environment
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The workplace environment can influence employee satisfaction. A team environment in which colleagues help each other, brainstorm together and freely discuss work issues and ideas for improvement will help motivate employees by making them feel part of a team. For team-building purposes, coordinate events, volunteering projects for a charity and silly contests. These events will encourage staff to get to know each other, fostering a more cohesive department.
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