Motivation is a vital metric in any business, being a core factor in individual and overall productivity. Not only can a lack of motivation result in decreased productivity, but also the stagnation of overall company growth. If a team feels uninspired to give their best, innovation slows, and expansion is threatened. So, how can you as a business leader improve motivation within your workforce?
Foster a Productive Atmosphere
Oftentimes, the solution to any potential motivation issues can be found in the fabric of your office building itself. Without the right atmosphere, productivity can suffer – and one of the bigger ways you can change the ‘feel’ of an office is by paying attention to its décor and amenities.
A drab working environment is not conducive to an enthusiastic workforce; introducing brighter colors, or a splash of vibrancy in the form of office foliage can make a significant difference. So too can offering a range of healthy snacks and drinks, enabling employees to restore energy without reliance on a cheap jar of instant coffee.
Invest in Appropriate Tools
If your office’s productivity feels sluggish, you should take some time to investigate exactly which processes are taking up the majority of your employees’ time. It may well be that some of your software or hardware solutions are no longer up to the task, or that you are missing a useful tool that could expedite specific tasks.
As a key example, investment in human resource management systems could enable more efficient and effective management of employee wellbeing. Alternatively, project management software can allow departments to liaise and collaborate with ease. Automation software is also worth considering, being a steadily improving field; repetitive administrative tasks could be handled algorithmically, freeing up man-hours and lightening workload.
Offer Development Opportunities
Productive, motivated workers have a key driving motivator behind their productivity – and for many, it is professional development. Employees who perceive themselves to be ‘dead-end’ are less likely to push themselves to improve, while those whose career progressions are nurtured are more likely to give it their best.
As such, you as an employer can actively nurture employee development, by engaging them with development opportunities. Offering training programs for workers to re-train, or refine knowledge in a particular specialism, is a form of investment in their future – and a powerful way to inspire productivity.
Show Appreciation
Lastly, the power of appreciation is easily under-estimated, especially in larger-scale professional environments. Going out of your way as a leader to thank individuals for their specific contributions is a way of ensuring that each employee is visible, and their role crucial to the continued success of the business. Praise is an excellent motivator, and if used judiciously, can foster a positive workforce.
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