In any workforce, and in any industry, there are some days that employees will feel dispirited and unmotivated. As an employer or manager, it’s essential to encourage and foster a motivated and positive workforce. A highly-motivated workforce is one that performs well, promotes low staff turnover and protects the reputation of your company.  Here are five ways that you can motivate your workforce:

1. Don’t micromanage

No-one enjoys working when there is someone constantly peering over your shoulder or checking your work. Micromanaging can lead to employees feeling as though you do not trust them or question the quality of their work. Check-in on projects, and remain interested in employee’s work, but don’t constantly monitor what they’re doing and how they’re doing it.

2. Recognise team accomplishments

Everyone wants recognition for their achievements and hard work, and the acknowledgement of a job well done can go far. As the manager or boss, it’s crucial that you know when employees have performed well, and what they’re getting right. Make sure that you recognise and appreciate their hard work.

3. Incentivise

Incentives are a great motivation booster! Incentives don’t always have to be expensive either. Smaller incentives like an extra paid day off, a lunch outing, or gift cards. You can even implement an employee rewards system to inspire employees and foster some light-hearted competitive spirit!

4. Act on suggestions and ideas

As a manager or employer, you need to be open to comments, suggestions and even criticism. While you don’t have to take everything to heart, it’s valuable to demonstrate that you take employee concerns seriously and value their insights. Foster clear communication by implementing a suggestion box, asking for feedback and responding to emails quickly.

5. Create a positive work environment

Employees spend a large portion of their lives in the workplace- so try to make the office look as appealing as possible.  This extends beyond simple appearances: making sure that all equipment is working and up to date is an important aspect of creating a positive work environment. When the workspace offers a pleasant atmosphere that is comfortable and welcoming, your employees will be more excited to go to work every day.

Professional Sourcing is a top-tier South African-based recruitment agency operating internationally, IPM accredited, LEVEL 2 BEE RATED and 51% Black Owned.

Our agency specialises in professional placements (senior and specialist talent) and exclusive skills recruitment to a wide range of industries, including JSE’s top 100 companies, SMEs and the Public Sector.