When we think about authentic motivation, a large part of it is about energy. When a person is truly motivated they feel energized to move forward, to take action, to do something.
So, as managers, we want to ask ourselves, “What can I do that will serve to energize people in an authentic way?”
Here are 7 things you can do that will energize your employees…
1. Communicate as much information to employees as often as possible.
On the authentic Top-10 List of what Employees want from work, #10 is… “Feeling well informed about what is going on.” Human nature is so very interesting. When people feel like they really know what’s currently going on with the company, it enhances their sense of control of their own lives. It also enhances involvement.
2. Send a problem out to all employees and ask for their suggestions on how to solve it.
This is remarkably effective. Once again, you’re doing something to stimulate involvement. And not only will you get some valuable ideas to consider, you’ll boost morale in an authentic way. There are few things more intrinsically motivating than to feel like your opinion is valued and sought-after.
3. Consistently and joyfully encourage employees to improve one process or procedure every day of how they do their job.
The very latest studies in human motivation tell us people have an inherent desire to master their work, if only they are not de-motivated to do so, and are given encouragement and support.
4. Give employees permission to say “Yes” to customers, along with the resources to do so.
This will energize your employees AND your customers. And you’ll be surprised at the creative solutions your employees will develop to truly serve their customers, as a result
of this.
5. Ask employees what one thing they would change in the organization and how they would change it.
With this question and some sincere listening, you’ll learn a lot. And it’s worth repeating that it’s very energizing, very empowering when people feel their opinions are valued and sought-after.
6. Openly encourage everyone to set aside time each day to focus on their highest priority tasks without any interruptions.
This is a way of stimulating important progress for people. One of the things that saps personal energy is feeling like you’re working hard but you’re not getting the important things done! (Read this one again.)
7. Ask people to bring one idea to the next meeting, about what can be done to make their job easier.
You don’t have to think too hard to realize why this is energizing for people. And this gets people thinking about efficiency. Also many of these ideas will be worth implementing.
If you’re not doing these things already, start adding a few of them into your approach to managing and your communication with people.
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