Developing Enthusiastic Employees Doesn't Have to Break the Bank
Updated: May 19, 2010
Connection
Build relationships with your workforce. Employees want to work in a collaborative environment designed to utilize their skills.
- Make it a part of the weekly ritual to walk around the office and talk with your employees. This routine will foster an open relationship between you and your staff.
- Learn your employees' individual strengths and needs and design roles and tasks that will put each one in a position to succeed.
- Provide clear directions and goals for each project.
- Create a supportive and accountable workplace. Encourage your employees to learn from their mistakes, free from punishment, by holding regular debriefings to analyze performance on a project.
Contribution
Create a system that motivates ALL employees to contribute.
- Make sure all voices - not just the loudest ones - are heard, The workplace is not a school yard; there should be no bullies - in meetings, go around the room and ask everyone to offer their ideas.
- Teamwork is key. Group structures can be an effective way to harness individual talents in service of a greater goal.
- Incentives are a great way to motivate employees.
Credibility
Earn the trust of your employees.
- Follow through on your promises. If you say you will set up an incentive program, you must do it
- Be honest. Whether business is booming or struggling, tell employees what's what. They'll respect you more for it and feel like they're part of a team instead of hired hands
Commitment
Lead by example. You, the employer, must be diligent about building a supportive workplace. Make it a priority, Show your employees that you value their contributions and recognize their achievements. Good managers remember to recognize and motivate employees. Great managers do it everyday.