How to Motivate Employees

Knowing how to motivate employees can mean the difference between a thriving business and a failing one. Since a large percentage of people would rather be doing something else other than their current work, motivating them can be quite the challenge. This isn't an impossible task however. This article will give you a few ideas on how you can help increasing productivity in the workplace in order to improve your bottom line. As you may know, there are different types of employees. Not everyone will be motivated the same way. For some people, a bonus can do the trick. For others, more money won't really do much at all and if it does, it will only be temporary. The first step to knowing how to motivate your employees is to realize that everyone works for a reason. Sometimes it's just for a paycheck but many times, it's more than that. For some people, all it takes is a, "Hey, thanks for doing such a great job on that last project." For others it may take a public recognition such as receiving an award for something in front of their coworkers. Some people can get these things and will still be unmotivated to work. For them, becoming motivated could mean having to really feel that what they do is making a difference, that they are somehow responsible for the success of the company. As you can see, with so many different styles, figuring out how to motivate employees in the workplace can be difficult. Fortunately, there are many things you can do to figure out people's motivation style is. This can be done by doing things like having them take a survey or even having a one on one talk with them to find out what their goals and purpose of working at the company is. Many employers will think that giving more money will do the job. This will work but many times, it's just temporary. The examples above are about how to motivate employees without money and can be much more effective. Realize very few people are actually lazy. You may see someone who just doesn't want to do anything but that doesn't mean they are a lazy person. It may just mean that they don't see the purpose of working hard. These people merely lack a strong enough goal or a reason. Figuring out how to motivate lazy employees can be as simple as asking them what will motivate them. Give them a reason to be productive. Remember, a paycheck may not be enough. Knowing how to motivate employees can be tough but it's something that you will have to figure out. There are a lot of different books and programs to help deal with this challenge. You can even hire a motivational speaker or even a company to come in a find out what motivates your employees for you so you don't have to.