Motivated employees rely on their own resources to get the
job done. They have an inner drive that causes them to
provide outstanding customer service. Unmotivated employees
simply want to get by doing the minimum amount of work
possible. Experts agree you can't force someone to be
motivated. Supervisors can, however, provide a workplace
environment that encourages employees to make decisions,
deal positively with co-workers and receive recognition for
hard work. At the next staff meeting or in a company
e-mail, list a few simple tips such as "How To Provide
Amazing Service to Stressed-Out Customers". Then provide
practical ways for your employees to place the emphasis on
serving your customers.
In a January 1998 Roper Poll, it was found 9 out of 10
employees will work harder for you if you show an interest
in their growth outside of work. This statistic opens up a
wealth of ways to motivate employees. One company had a
bulletin board in the staff lounge with the caption
"Greatest Pets In The World". It was constantly covered
with pictures of adorable puppies and all types of pets
owned by the staff. Here are some other ways for you to
show entry level employees you care about them as people.
- Discover your employee's interests. If an employee loves
gardening, give them a small plant in appreciation for
their hard work. People appreciate knowing you gave them a
gift geared towards their interest or hobby.
- Never underestimate the power of meaningful conversation.
Asking an employee, "How did your son do at the basketball
tournament?" shows you care about more than their ability
to create the company website.
- Many businesses see an increase in workload during the
holidays. Help staff reduce stress by purchasing Panic
buttons. These bright red, actual computer keys are
imprinted with PANIC. Double backed adhesive lets you
attach them to any item that brings you frustration.
www.panicbuttons.com
These types of activities help employees feel staff cares
about them as individuals, not simply employees. Then, when
management reinforces policies such as arriving to work on
time and cutting back on sending holiday e-mail cards,
employees are more receptive.
The University of Kansas psychology department studied
other ways to motivate employees. Their results showed
recognition was a strong factor in developing employees
with high work standards. Again, giving recognition doesn't
take a huge budget. One supervisor gives "psychological
paychecks". When employees receive their paychecks, he
attaches a Post-it note on the envelope with a specific
positive statement such as, "Helen, Thank you for coming in
early last week during the budget crunch."
Employees take pride in knowing their extra efforts are
acknowledged. Begin staff meetings with public praise for
an employee's efforts or contributions to the department.
Wouldn't you enjoy being in a meeting that starts with,
"Last week, Jennifer came in as a substitute on incredibly
short notice. I'd like to thank her by giving her this
gift...a submarine sandwich!" Keep people informed. As much
as possible, let employees know what is going on. Rumors
and gossip uncertainty do little to motivate employees.
Reward employees who recommend new employees. Send balloons
or flowers to an employee's house if they deserve special
recognition.
Oprah Winfrey has the budget to motivate her employees with
exotic gifts and luxury vacations. Most supervisors and
managers need to rely on creativity and perhaps a Panic
button. The point is the same...letting employees know you
appreciate their efforts and hard work results in highly
motivated employees.
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Silvana Clark is a professional speaker, presenting
keynotes and workshops on business-related topics.The
author of 11 books, she gained her marketing experience by
getting her "ordinary" dog to star in TV commercials. Oh
yes, she also appeared on the Fox reality show, Trading
Spouses.
http://www.silvanaclark.com
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