Workplace Motivation !!!

Hi!
I recently heard a story about a certain manager who argued that his
role had nothing to do with motivating people. Workplace motivation,
he said, was the job of the Human Resources department!

I know you won't be surprised to hear that I disagree. What's more,
workplace motivation is one of the significant issues raised by many
good managers, business owners and team leaders today.

Leading a motivated team is not only more productive, you will find
it much more enjoyable and rewarding too. Poorly motivated employees
rarely function well as a team, and typically generate more stress
for you than they do results. So good leaders consider the impact of
their actions on workplace motivation carefully. No one wants a
demotivated workplace producing barely adequate outcomes and a
stressful situation.

Here are three simple yet effective ways you can boost workplace
motivation and morale:

1. Offer a Reward

Rewards are motivating. And although money is one type of reward, it
is far from the only reward you can use. Frequently it's not even the
best reward to offer. Exactly what rewards are most appropriate will
vary from person to person and according your particular situation,
but here are some ideas to consider.

For many people coaching them to develop new and better skills is a
powerful and motivating reward. Encouragement, recognition, more
trust or a promotion or new work title may be motivating to some of
your people. Likewise, for some more overtime, less travel, a special
project or development opportunity or flexible work hours may help
boost workplace motivation.

Once you start to think about it, and get to know your people well
enough to know what they would appreciate, you will be able to think
of a whole range of motivating rewards that are appropriate in your
situation.

2. Listen to People

Everyone likes to feel that their input and opinion is valued,
respected and considered. It takes only a moment - and an open
attitude - to welcome input from each individual on your team.

Ask for their views and input. Be genuinely willing to listen to
people and you will see an amazing response from previously
demotivated staff.

3. Lighten up a Little

Motivated employees enjoy their work. Numerous studies have shown
that people work harder, not less, when the workplace is a fun, happy
and enjoyable place.

As leader, you get to set the tone for a happy workplace. Take a
moment to smile at people and ask after their family, hobbies or
interests. Encourage some team social activities. Take the team out
for coffee or bring in a cake to celebrate an achievement. We spend
many hours each day in the workplace. Part of your role as the leader
is to ensure your team are motivated to actually be there and
contribute fully to reaching your team goals.

Believe me, everything will be easier for you as the leader if people
enjoy actually being there, rather than dread coming to work each
day.

Good leaders accept responsibility for workplace motivation and do
what they can to foster it. When you apply these three simple
concepts in your workplace you will quickly build a motivated,
committed and successful workforce - and a pleasant place to work!
Nikhil