5 Proven Ways to Motivate Employees

​Are employees lacking motivation in their work? 

Studies reveal most employees want more than just a regular paycheck. Or, even a yearly bonus!

Sure. Most employees want a good paying job along with generous company benefits. But for employees to perform at a higher level, it takes something greater than money.

Research shows that employees who are really engaged in their work are “intrinsically” motivated.

ENGAGED EMPLOYEES ARE “INTRINSICALLY” MOTIVATED

What does it mean to be “intrinsically” motivated?

Intrinsically motivated employees are naturally engaged. They feel they are making a meaningful contribution to the organization. They are challenged. And they understand the difference they are making in people’s lives.

Check out these ideas to encourage “intrinsic” motivation in employees:
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​1. Help employees understand how their work fits into the success of the organization.​

Yes, this takes time. But it’s fundamental to employee motivation. By taking the time to explain the process, the employee sees their value to the organization.

Remember this story?

​President John F. Kennedy visited NASA in the 1960’s. When President Kennedy saw a man mopping the floor, he asked what the man did for NASA.  The man replied, “I am working to put a man on the moon.”

​This man understood how important his job was to NASA.  He was motivated to do his work every day.  He was contributing to a cause that would change the world.
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2. Display pictures of your product or service being used by customers.
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This motivates employees because they will see what they are working towards.
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A well-known food processing plant uses this practice in their manufacturing facility.  Management strategically posts pictures of the company’s delicious, mouth-watering food for all to see throughout the day.  These simple posters are a great reminder of the company’s mission - providing high-quality food products. 

3. Ask front-line employees to share positive customer stories.

Circulate these stories to all employees, using pictures and videos (with customer permission of course). Try to find a variety of ways to tell these engaging stories (meetings, social media, etc.).

4. Include support employees in trainings about the company – helping them better understand the organization.

​This will make them feel a part of the team and the organization - performing their job with greater purpose.

Many times, employees aren’t motivated because they are given a small part of the process and don’t understand how it relates to the mission of the company.
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They may even have some good ideas to make the process more efficient.

5. Encourage employees to use their natural talents in accomplishing the mission of the company
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This is one of the best ways to encourage employees because they become driven to succeed at their job and the organization. Their work goes from being mundane to exciting because they are doing what they enjoy.

ENGAGED EMPLOYEES ARE SUCCESSFUL

These are just a few ways you can help your employees have real purpose in their work. As a result of your effort, your organization will experience better retention and greater profits.
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What methods do you use to encourage employee motivation?