Recruitment and Careers News

The definition of the word motivation is the process that initiates, guides, and maintains goal-oriented behaviours. (verywellmind) There have been many studies over recent years as to how to maintain motivation amongst the team. High motivation levels will in turn improve output, which dependant on your business, can improve sales and/or retention of the team.

It’s natural for people’s motivation to decline occasionally. For example, during the colder darker months of winter, or if someone hasn’t had any time off work for a while. In addition, a person’s motivation will decline if they don’t feel rewarded for their work.

So, how do you keep your employees motivated in the workplace?

There are many ways to improve and keep the motivation of your team high. For me and for my team, below are the ones, I believe paramount, which I try to enforce daily.

Recognise great work

70% of employees say that motivation and morale would improve massively with an increased recognition from managers (Employee Benefit News). A simple “thank you”, or “great work”, goes a lot longer way than you may think. If an employee produces great results but their hard work isn’t recognised, why would they continue to be a high-performing employee?

Set realistic targets

Targets have to be SMART and achievable. Unrealistic targets can be the most demotivational aspect of any role. It is futile giving targets that absolutely cannot be achieved.

Celebrate Results

Make the person feel proud of their work not just with gestures but with words too. Here at the Eventus Recruitment Group we celebrate success individually by an “employee of the month award” and also team success events and prizes. We help each other if things don’t go to plan and always help each other to achieve our individual goals. Something that regretfully doesn’t seem to be the norm in this industry.

Take regular breaks

This is so so important. It is wonderful that my team want to stay in touch whist they are on annual leave, but it is imperative to “switch off” from work. We all need time out. Holidays are given for a reason. And, although I personally struggle at taking this advice, the results of genuine breaks are huge. Encourage full switch off with employees and team members alike.

Stay healthy

Easier said than done, and from someone who hasn’t had the greatest of health for many years, I know how important this is. Encourage your team to take a walk or exercise over lunch. We are lucky to have healthcare here, and the benefits are huge. We have very little sick records amongst the team, and activities in and around work are always encouraged.

Be Transparent

I am sure we have all worked for a business with closed doors and whispers. Include the team in the plans for the forecasting and (as much as feasible) the accounts. A team that is brought into all aspects of the business will be loyal hardworking and above all motivated.

If you have a motivated team, the business will flourish. Good teamwork is exemplary and “Teamwork divides the task and multiplies the success.”

Employee Benefits and Incentives

I like to reward my team with enhanced benefits and incentives. There are lots of employee benefits and incentives you can offer to your employees to reward them and say thank you. Employee benefits include bonus schemes, life insurance and discounts such as Westfield Health, and enhanced annual leave.

Furthermore, incentives help boost morale in the workplace. For example, Employee of the Month, team days out or award ceremonies. For more ideas on incentives, view our blog here.

Written by Siobhan Courtney, Managing Director of The Eventus Recruitment Group