Motivating a team isn’t always an easy job. It requires know-how, and a method to keep everyone involved and motivated. As a manager, you’re responsible for getting the best from your employees. So, if you feel that their desire to succeed is running out of steam, here’s how you can make a difference.

1# Make sure your team knows how to work together to achieve common goals

Encouraging and promoting teamwork is a great way to motivate your team, boost morale and productivity. Find activities that can help them get to know each other and learn how to work together cohesively. Start regular team-building exercises and be sure you give your employees opportunities to bond and encourage team values. Team-building activities also have other great advantages. They usually help your collaborators develop better communication and leadership skills, and push them out of their comfort zones.

2# Let your team members be part of the decision-making process

Involving your team in decision making isn’t always easy, but it will greatly show that you value your employees’ ideas and inputs. On their part, your employees will feel a sense of trust and empowerment that will motivate them to give their best, as they feel valued and listened to. Empowering your employees to make decisions (or at least be part of the decision making process) will greatly improve the level of engagement and motivation, encouraging your people to go above and beyond for your business success.

3# Show gratitude and appreciation for the work done

One of the best ways to motivate your team and to be sure that your people feel appreciated is by using regular genuine recognition and praise for the job well done. Showing appreciation and gratitude with thoughtfulness will improve their motivation, as well as turnover and productivity. To give effective praise you first need to express what is expected to be achieved and then recognize when your team members have earned it by delivering results and meeting your standards.

4# Accept flexible working hours

As our working environment has an impact on our productivity, creativity, and commitment, you should learn to accept flexible schedules and remote work if that’s what your team members need, as happy employees are more likely to remain motivated. They will appreciate that you’re taking into account their working preferences and that you support them in their choice of location. You might want to use tools to manage your employees’ schedule to be sure everyone is on the same page and following a scheduling program.

5# Help your employees in their careers

As Teresa Amabile explained in her research posted on the Harvard Business Review – “Of all the things that can boost inner work life, the most important is making progress in meaningful work.” By making sure your team is making regular progress in their day-to-day job, as well as in their careers, you will help them remain motivated at work. Think about organizing 1 on 1 conversations to talk about career progress, so then you know how to provide tailored opportunities for development.

Final word

Putting together a hard-working team is great first step, but keeping your team members engaged, motivated and productive when the situation is uncertain, can truly make a difference in your business – and everything starts with you. 
Think about your management and leadership style and make the necessary changes to become a more understanding and effective leader. By offering strong leadership and showing your team the kind of work ethic and company culture you want to cultivate within your business, you will be able to get the most from your employees.

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