Are your employees motivated?
As a coach, one of the very common concerns that I come across is Employee motivation. Whether small businesses or large multinationals employee motivation is probably one of the most critical hr management issues. A research by Rypple shows that only 29% of employees work with complete commitment and enthusiasm.
Motivation at workplace plays a very important role. Highly motivated employees are 87% less likely to leave their jobs thus increasing retention and cutting on hiring and training cost. Motivated employees perform their tasks with greater ownership thus freeing up time for managers. Lastly, motivated employees have high levels of performance as it inspires creativity, commitment and enthusiasm.
What Keeps Employees Motivated ?
Almost all employers were of the opinion ‘its not about money‘! Business owners pay more salary than their competition and yet the level of motivation seems to be lacking.
One of the primary reasons for demotivated employees is the difference in understanding. Employees are not aware of where the company is headed – the larger vision. Most employers think it not necessary to communicate the company’s vision to its employees. However, without understanding the company mission and vision an employee is unable to align himself to it and this creates a rift between the employees and the employer. Clearly communicating your vision and what is expected of them is a great way to involve and motivate employees.
Another important aspect is growth opportunities. The basic nature of man is curious and aims to achieve more. Businesses and organizations should constantly and in regular intervals provide employees with added responsibilities. This is an acknowledgement to their performance in the past. Employers should also invest in training the employees from time to time. Arrange for them to attend a seminar. This creates a positive mindset in the employees and they feel valued.
Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs clearly shows that once the basic needs of human survival and safety are met, what propels a man forward is recognition. A lot of times we see incentive systems and thats great. But think for a moment; You have taken your wife for a trip to Switzerland. What would your heart desire from her? A well bought dinner or appreciation. Summarising in the words of renowned entrepreneur Sam Walton, “Appreciate everything your associates do for the business. Nothing else can quite substitute for a few well-chosen, well-timed, sincere words of praise. They’re absolutely free and worth a fortune.”
