We all know the signs that our team may be starting to run a little off course. The length of breaks may have extended, the gossip around the coffee maker may have increased, you’re hearing whispers of this one not doing that etc. So how do we avoid this happening? What can be implemented to keep your team on course? The more engaged your team is, the harder they will work.
1. ENSURE EMPLOYEE’S JOBS ARE LINKED TO THE ORGANISATION’ S OVERALL OBJECTIVES
If an employee doesn’t know why they are doing what they are doing, and how it contributes to the overall goals of an organisation, they may lack motivation. It is important that your staff know your expectations of them, otherwise they may not even realise they are heading off course.
2. COMMUNICATION IS KEY
Very few businesses are shamed for “over communicating” with their staff. It is important to talk to your team members regularly to know how they are feeling in their role. Regular communication builds trust with an employee, and means you will be able to pick up the early signs of them heading off course. This could be done by having weekly, fortnightly or monthly catch ups. Another way to track the engagement of your employees is through surveying. This can be done by asking them quarterly or yearly how they feel in certain areas of the business, and getting their opinion on what could be improved. The important step with doing this is to make sure you show your staff what processes you have implemented or improvements you have made as a result of their feedback.
3. REWARD & RECOGNITION SYSTEM
It is widely known that money is no longer the only thing that drives employees to work hard. Recognition reinforces an employee’s understanding of how you want them to work. There can be both formal and informal ways to provide rewards and recognition to employees. The most important factor is to be aware that some rewards may attract a Fringe Tax Benefit (FBT) obligation. It is also important to ensure the system is fair and accurate.
Here are some other rewards you could offer to keep motivation going;
- Take the team to lunch
- Gym membership
- Tickets to movies or sporting events
- Coles vouchers
- Authorise time off – a half or full day
