No, salary is not everything to motivate your employees. Of course, fair financial compensation is important so that every worker feels motivated to give their best during the work day… but this is only the basis. In reality, there are many Other factors that influence mood –and, therefore, in the productivity– of people.
Every employee is unique, so it’s important to know their preferences and what motivates them individually. The key is to show appreciation, provide opportunities for growth, and create an environment where they feel valued and respected.
Ways to motivate your employees that don’t involve money
Take them into account to build a happy and efficient work team:
1. Make sure everyone is in the right position
Having someone poorly prepared in a key position is as catastrophic as having someone highly trained doing tasks that are too simple. If you notice that someone has initiative and is capable of carrying out important tasks, don’t bore them by asking them to spend the day sending emails! Make sure all people are suitable for their position.
2. Give them the necessary tools to fulfill their functions
This includes not only better computers (please give them better computers), but also training. Many leaders underestimate the importance of setting aside time to train and resolve employee concerns. Don’t assume they already know everything! Spend time with them to review projects, set goals, and define what tools they need to achieve them.
3. Tell them what you expect from them
At the time of hiring and from time to time, meet with each member of your team to establish (with balls and sticks) what you expect from their performance and what results you want to see. For an employee, nothing can be worse than having no idea what their role is in a company.
4. Have they done a good job? let them know
“Yes, they are meeting their objectives, but that is why I hired them.” If you have ever uttered these words, perhaps it is time to rethink your attitude. We all need a pat on the back from time to time to encourage us to keep going. And no, doing so will not make you weak in front of others.
5. Treat them with respect
People who are happy with their jobs stay there longer, and they also give much more than is expected of them. And the thing is, who likes to be stepped on all the time? Meet with your employees frequently to make sure they are happy with what they do. Also, have an “open door” policy so they feel comfortable talking to you about whatever is bothering them.
6. Give them autonomy
Do you tend to want to control everything? Do you ask them to let you know about every task they perform during the day? Most likely, they feel suffocated and will try to run away from you at the first opportunity. Tell them what to do and let them do it! Asking them for daily reports or having meetings all the time will drastically reduce their desire to work.
7. Don’t let everything be work!
Productivity is important, but thinking only about work and considering everything else to be “distractions” will create a tense and unenjoyable work environment. From time to time, organize recreational activities that allow them to take their minds off work and strengthen the bonds in the team. How about a ping pong tournament? A race? An outing to a restaurant? Please: treat your employees as human beings and not as a number.
8. Offer them opportunities for growth
Beyond salary and good treatment, employees seek professional growth. Offer them the opportunity to develop their skills as well as learn new things, whether or not they directly relate to their area. Offer your workers the possibility of becoming valuable employees for the organization.
9. Allow them to have flexible schedules
If you trust their organizational skills, give them the opportunity to manage their schedule to accommodate their personal needs. This, as well as the possibility of working from home, will result in greater efficiency as well as high motivation.
10. Respect their time
Nothing can be more frustrating than feeling like your time is not valued. Can you imagine how you make your employees feel if you show up late to meetings, reschedule them five times, or ask them to stay late to complete a task – which may well wait until the next day? Respect their schedules, just as you would expect them to respect yours.
Editorial Team The editorial team of EMPRENDEDOR.com, which for more than 27 years has worked to promote entrepreneurship.