When it comes to your business, your employees are a key component in how successful you are. After all, they're the ones greeting customers, filling orders, and giving your business a "face".
Employees can make or break your business. Which is why it's vital you make sure they're motivated and happy to be working.
There's no "secret formula" for employee motivation. At heart, it's simply about discovering what truly makes your team happy and then giving them what they want. And no, this doesn't have to involve expensive trips to Tahiti or never-ending "Employee of the Month" trophies.
For instance, you could start by giving your team a questionnaire. Use it to find out what they're unhappy about at work, and what they enjoy most. Ask them what changes they'd really like to see happen, or if there are any skills they'd really like to learn.
Most people would love to have flexibility in their schedule, and this is a no-cost way you could really score some points with your employees. Could you offer them a 4-day work week? Or scheduling that allows them to save money on childcare?
Many companies are starting to see the benefits of more flexible scheduling, especially when it comes to a shorter workweek. Recently, the state of Utah went to a 4 day workweek. They're saving 13% on energy costs, and their employees are saving big on gas and childcare costs. The biggest perk? Absenteeism is down, and everyone is happy with the shorter schedule.
Also, don't forget the power of a heartfelt "thank you". Thanking your team for a job well done is something that managers often forget to do. But it can make a huge difference in your team's morale. Everyone wants to feel appreciated, so make a point to thank someone at least once per week.
You can also keep your team motivated by showing a real interest in their lives. Learn about their hobbies, their families, and their goals in life. Try to connect with them on a personal level.
And if your business can accommodate it, give your team the freedom to work more on their own. No one likes having a boss hanging over their shoulder, watching their every move. Give your team a task, project, or goal, and leave it up to them to figure out the best way to get there. This is showing trust in their abilities, and they'll appreciate your vote of confidence.
Motivating your team doesn't have to cost a fortune. In fact, it's the small touches that often make the biggest impact.
Jeff Thomas is a contributing writer for Ideal Computer Systems, a leading provider of business management software for Outdoor Power Equipment/Lawn Mower and Powersports/Motorcycle dealers.
With nearly 25 years of proven experience, Ideal has helped thousands of dealers gain control of their inventory, streamline their service department, evaluate their overall business performance with customized reports, and much more. For more information, visit http://www.idealcomputersystems.com/
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