Employee Motivation : 20 Easy Ways to Motivate Your Coworkers & Employees

Employee motivation techniques are essential to the success of a company. When you know how to motivate employees you’ll get the best out of them. Motivated employees will work harder and dedicate themselves to the company’s mission. Happy workers are more productive and more likely to stay with the company than look elsewhere for another job.

It doesn´t matter what the business is, employee motivation in the private sector and the public sector are as important as each other.

Consider this situation – the high-flyer you hired a year ago no longer seems motivated. They’re doing the minimum of work, not coming up with new ideas, not interacting, and seem like they want to be someplace else. How do you improve their morale and motivation?

 

Rather than giving up on them, the first thing is to find out what the problem is. Arrange an informal chat and find out why this person who was such a hard worker before now lacks motivation. Then address the problem and turn the situation around.

You may have to work out how to motivate an overwhelmed employee, how to make them feel valued, or how to give them a more challenging role. Whatever the issue is, supporting a demotivated employee will give them a boost.

There are two main types of employee motivation:

• Intrinsic – personal challenges, job satisfaction, self-fulfillment
• Extrinsic – physical rewards, salary, bonuses, gifts

It’s the employer’s role to facilitate employee motivation and figure out what employees need to motivate them. There are a number of ways to do this so your company becomes the one everyone wants to work for. It could be something as simple as ensuring equipment and systems such as the intranet work effectively, running an employee engagement survey, or buying the team lunch once a month.

Here are 20 ways to improve employee motivation :

 

1. Improve corporate and team culture

These are essential for a motivated workplace. Productivity improves when employees feel part of a team and a valued member of the company.

Company culture starts at the top and filters down. It’s reflected in a philosophy where everyone is equal and of value, and contributes their skills to the objectives of the company. It includes working as part of a team and sharing knowledge and ideas.

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2. Develop a modern work environment

The work environment is one of the critical motivation strategies. A smart modern office fosters more success than an old building with peeling paint and bad decor.

The office should be a pleasure to work in, full of natural light, and a comfortable temperature. Employees will appreciate extras such as an area to chill, eat lunch, play games, and chat.

If you’re due an office re-design why not ask employees for their ideas?

 

3. Provide an Employee motivation platform

Another key motivation strategy is to supply a platform where everyone can work together, such as LumApps. A cloud-based intranet is the perfect tool to do this. People can stay up-to-date with projects, collaborate with team members and colleagues, and have access to company information.

This is a sure-fire way to promote employee motivation, develop team building and engage people in their work.

 

LumApps, the Employee Experience Platform:

Discover LumApps

 

4. Provide transparent and clear communication

Clear communication leads to positive outcomes. When employees are clear on their roles and what they should be doing they feel motivated.

A company intranet is a way to achieve this. It can give access to whatever an employee needs to perform their job:

• Project schedules and briefs
• Technical data
• Marketing materials
• Employee handbooks
• Product information
• Internal news…

 

5. Encourage teamwork

Teamwork is the key to improved employee motivation. Working as a team ensures everyone feels valuable and plays a part in achieving a goal.

It also means you can share ideas, solve problems and plan together with colleagues. This can take place as an intranet messenger chat, a virtual meeting or face-to-face.

 

6. Encourage innovation and creativity

Boredom destroys motivation. Allow employees to express their creative side and bring their ideas to projects. Just because someone works in accounts or the technical department doesn’t mean they don’t have innovative ideas.

Encourage employee engagement motivation by inviting them to contribute ideas for new products, branding or a logo. Offer a prize for the winner. Being recognized for skills other than those we’re employed for can encourage a high level of motivation.

 

7. Express gratitude

It’s easy to say thank you or well done. These simple words go a long way toward motivating someone and showing appreciation.

Another way to recognize good work is through extrinsic rewards, for example, extra vacation days, vouchers, or travel. This gives employees something to work towards.

The intranet is a great place to set up a reward page, where employees can earn points and see the prizes on offer.

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8. Recognize a good job

Catch people doing it right and acknowledge it. When someone tells us we’ve done a good job we feel motivated to do further good work. It boosts confidence to know we’re appreciated.

This also applies to recognizing that someone’s done something brave, for example reporting a hazardous or uncomfortable situation.

 

9. Express clear company goals

Another motivating factor for employees is clearly defining the goals of the company. This means employees understand the bigger picture and where they fit into the company.

The impact of employee motivation on employee performance is important. If an employee knows why they’re doing their job and how it contributes to the company objectives they feel confident in their role and will work more efficiently.

 

10. Give individual and team rewards

This is an opportunity to achieve increased employee motivation by giving people something to work towards. If a team knows that if senior management accepts their project they get a free weekend in Paris or a trip to the Maldives, it’s an incentive to work hard. The same applies to individuals. Offering rewards can motivate and create healthy competition.

 

11. Provide a Positive communication

Positivity breeds motivation. Positively presenting new ideas and projects encourages employees to support the success of the company. When everyone understands the company goals the level of employee motivation can increase dramatically.

This also applies to problem-solving. If there’s an issue it’s more likely to be solved if it’s addressed positively, over an informal cup of coffee, rather than with negativity.

 

12. Provide a Positive competition

Friendly competition is good in the workplace. This form of motivation works. It encourages team spirit and facing challenges in a positive way. This can take place through employee recognition, such as a page on the intranet that features the employee of the month. Competition doesn´t have to be cut-throat – if presented in the right way it can boost employee morale.

 

13. Build regular objectives with each employee

Don´t wait until annual reviews to set objectives. If you regularly set each employee individual objectives they’re likely to devote a high level of energy and commitment to their job. Doing this will ensure employees are constantly motivated to achieve their targets, especially if they receive rewards.

This is also a way to get to know employees, which makes them feel their manager has an interest in them as a person.

 

14. Include employees in decision making

How can you use employee engagement to increase motivation? Giving employees accountability and listening to their opinions can increase intrinsic motivation and engagement. From setting up a survey on the intranet to asking what color the new product labels should be to finding out what people think of remote working. When you need to make major decisions that will affect the lives of your employees include them in the decisions.

 

15. Ask employees for feedback

This is another way to enhance motivation is by using intranet surveys. Your employees can be your most important focus group when you launch a new product, plan to expand or introduce new systems. And don’t only ask for the feedback, show you’ve listened, and considered people’s opinions. This will make employees feel they’re an important part of the company.

 

16. Discover what motivates each employee

Money and material rewards don’t always encourage an employee to work harder. Of course, they help, but not everyone is motivated in the same way. Some people feel their career path is more important than incentives.

Every person that works in a company is an individual and should be treated like one. This means talking to people and asking what motivates them, which will build trust. Do this face-to-face or with an employee motivation survey that lists a series of employee motivation interview questions.

➝  Read more: 10 Great Ways to Empower Frontline Employees

 

17. Develop an easy work-life balance

Balancing our personal lives with work isn’t always easy. We have children, parents, partners, studies… An employer that understands this and allows fair vacations and time off for personal issues will motivate their staff.

When the right work-life balance is achieved, employees can concentrate on their work as they’re not worrying about external issues.

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18. Develop employee career paths

People feel motivated when they have a clear career advancement path. If a promotion is in sight it can promote better employee productivity. We feel motivated when we know we have a career goal. Every employee should be allowed to grow and develop with the company, to encourage them to give their best.

 

19. Provide regular training

Training can be inspiring and shows an understanding of the importance of employee motivation. It shows an employer is dedicated to helping their employees to learn as much as they can about their job and how to do it better. Training outside of roles can also be a great motivator. For example, offering first-aid, budget management or computer training can motivate employees to expand their skills. Mentoring is also a way to motivate as it offers guidance when someone is new to a role and can build their confidence.

 

20. Give employees autonomy

Trust people to do their jobs without constantly checking up on them. A good manager does this while letting their employees know they’re there for guidance if needed. Being left alone to do a job raises motivation as it reinforces the fact that the employee knows what they’re doing to complete their tasks.

 

Understanding and enhancing worker motivation has become a pivotal aspect of fostering an environment that nurtures productivity and cultivates a culture of sustained engagement and satisfaction. Here are strategies and insights on how to increase  employee motivation, by weaving in key elements that drive individuals to excel and remain committed over the long haul, including remote workers and the role technology plays.

Understanding What Motivates People to Work for a Company

The reasons why people choose to work for and stay loyal to a company are as diverse as the workforce itself. However, core motivators often include an appealing company culture, opportunities for professional growth, recognition, rewards, and a healthy work-life balance. Companies that prioritize these aspects tend to attract and retain top talent.
 

Strategies to Keep Workers Motivated in the Long Run

Maintaining worker motivation over time requires a multifaceted approach :

• Offer Continuous Learning Opportunities: Encourage professional development to keep your team members engaged and evolving.
• Foster a Culture of Recognition: Regularly acknowledge and reward employees for their hard work and achievements.
• Ensure a good Work-Life Balance: Promote policies that support a healthy balance between professional responsibilities and personal life.
• Create Clear Career Pathways: Show employees a clear trajectory for advancement within the organization.
   

Motivating Remote Workers

Keeping remote workers motivated presents unique challenges and opportunities. Keep remote employees engaged with :

• Regular Check-ins: Foster a sense of belonging and stay informed about their needs and challenges.
• Virtual Team Building: Invest in virtual team-building activities to strengthen connections and morale.
• Offer Remote-Friendly Tools: Provide access to technology that facilitates collaboration and communication.
   

The Impact of Worker Motivation and Technology on Business Production Levels

A motivated workforce is results in higher productivity. Technology plays a crucial role by enabling efficient workflows, increasing employee engagement and ensuring employee recognition. When employees feel motivated, they are more likely to do better at work, resulting in enhanced performance and innovation.

Increasing Worker Motivation

To boost motivation among your workforce :

• Implement Feedback Loops: Use employee feedback to make meaningful changes and show that you value their input.
• Personalize Motivation Strategies: Recognize that each employee is motivated differently and tailor your approaches accordingly.
• Promote Autonomy: Trust employees with a degree of autonomy in their tasks to foster a sense of ownership and responsibility.

 

Workplace Motivation Increases Employee Investment and Job Engagement

Highly motivated employees are more invested in their roles and display a higher level of job engagement. This investment manifests in numerous ways, including increased creativity, a willingness to go above and beyond their duty, and a deeper commitment to the company’s goals and values. Ultimately, a motivated workforce is a key driver of organizational success.

Additional Strategies for Enhancing Employee Motivation

Here are some additional strategies that have proven successful:

Empower Employees with Autonomy

Trust your employees to make decisions and take ownership of their projects. Empowering them with autonomy shall boost their confidence and motivation. This approach fosters a sense of responsibility and encourages innovative thinking.

Encourage Job Enrichment

Focus on job enrichment by adding variety and meaning to our employees' work. By rotating tasks, providing opportunities for skill development, and introducing challenging work, companies ensure that our employees remain engaged and motivated.

Implement Goal-Setting and Performance Metrics

Clear and achievable goals are essential for boosting employee motivation. Companies willing to boost employee motivation regularly implement goal-setting sessions where employees can outline their objectives and align them with the company’s vision. This not only improves productivity but also provides a sense of direction and accomplishment.

Foster a Culture of Recognition

Beyond formal recognition programs, encourage a culture where appreciation is part of the daily routine. Simple gestures like shout-outs in meetings or a quick note of thanks can significantly boost morale and motivation.

Promote Work-Life Integration

Now more than ever, companies should understand that work-life balance is crucial for employee well-being. Alongside flexible work policies, promote work-life integration through initiatives that allow employees to blend their professional and personal lives seamlessly. This approach helps reduce stress and increases overall job satisfaction.

Leverage the Power of Feedback

Regular, constructive feedback is a pillar of our company culture. Provide continuous feedback loops where employees receive timely insights into their performance. This helps them grow and adapt, leading to higher levels of motivation and engagement.

Enhance Team Dynamics

Strong team dynamics are vital for a motivated workforce. Invest in team-building activities and foster an inclusive environment where collaboration thrives. This not only strengthens relationships but also enhances collective problem-solving capabilities.

Align Individual and Company Values

Make sure that your employees' personal values align with our company values. This alignment creates a sense of belonging and purpose, driving employees to excel in their roles. Companies can also regularly communicate their own mission and values, reinforcing their importance in everyday tasks.

Continuous Learning Opportunities

Companies should believe in lifelong learning and provide continuous opportunities for professional development. From workshops to online courses (thanks to our intranet platform), employees can have access to a wealth of resources that support their growth and enhance their skill sets.

Implement Well-Being Initiatives

Well-being initiatives go beyond physical health. Companies can offer mental health support, stress management workshops, and wellness programs that cater to the holistic needs of our employees. A healthy and happy workforce is a motivated one.

Recognizing Efforts with Personal Touches

Personalize recognition efforts by celebrating individual milestones and achievements in a meaningful way. LumApps has its own employee recognition feature in its intranet. Whether it’s a handwritten note or a custom reward, these personal touches make employees feel truly valued.

Engage Through Social Responsibility

Make sure your employees are involved in social responsibility initiatives, allowing them to contribute to causes they care about. This engagement not only boosts motivation but also fosters a sense of pride in the company’s impact on the community.

Encouraging Innovation and Creativity

Create and provide an environment where innovation and creativity are encouraged. Employees are given the freedom to experiment and explore new ideas, leading to a more dynamic and motivated workforce.

Future Plans to Enhance Employee Motivation

Looking ahead, here are several exciting initiatives planned to further enhance employee motivation:

Leadership Development Program

Launching a comprehensive "Leadership Development Program" to nurture future leaders within the company. This program will provide training, mentoring, and clear pathways for career advancement, ensuring that employees have the tools they need to succeed.

Wellness Challenge Initiative

Introducing a "Wellness Challenge" initiative that promotes healthier living and work-life balance. Employees can participate in various wellness activities and earn rewards for their progress, creating a fun and engaging way to prioritize health.

Personalized Benefits Package

Enhancing your benefits package to include more personalized and flexible options, in order to meet the diverse needs of your workforce, ensuring that every employee feels recognized and appreciated.

Remote Work Success Program

Piloting a "Remote Work Success Program" to support employees in making the most of remote work. This program will include training on effective communication, time management, and wellness strategies, ensuring that remote work is both productive and enjoyable.

New Performance Management System

Implementing a new performance management system that emphasizes continuous feedback and recognition. This system will ensure that achievements and hard work are acknowledged in real-time, fostering a culture of ongoing appreciation.

Expanded Learning and Development Offerings

Expanding learning and development offerings to include more on-demand and self-paced resources. This will make professional growth more accessible and tailored to individual needs, supporting continuous employee growth.

By implementing these strategies, companies aim to create a workplace where employees are not only engaged and productive but also inspired and motivated to reach their full potential.

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