No, the salary is not everything. Of course, a just economic remuneration is important so that all employees feel motivated to give their best at work … but this is only the basis. In fact, there are many other factors that influence the mood — and, therefore, the productivity — of people. Take them into account to build a happy and efficient work team:
1. Make sure everyone is in the right position
Having someone unprepared in a key position is as catastrophic as having someone very skilled doing too simple tasks. If you notice that someone has initiative and is able to perform important tasks, do not bore him by asking him to spend the day sending emails! Take care that all people are suitable for their position.
“Leadership is the ability to facilitate movement in the needed direction and have people feel good about it.” — Tom Smith
2. Give them the necessary tools to fulfill their duties
This includes not only better computers (please give them better computers), but also training. Many leaders underestimate the importance of spending time to train them and resolve their employees’ doubts. Do not assume that they already know everything! Spend time with them to review the projects, establish the objectives and define what tools they need to achieve them.
“When people go to work, they shouldn’t have to leave their hearts at home.” — Betty Bender
3. Tell them what you expect from them
At the time of hiring and every so often, meet with each member of your team to establish (with balls and sticks) what you expect from their performance and what are the results you want to see. For an employee, nothing can be worse than having no idea what their role in a company is.
“Paychecks can’t buy passion.” — Brad Federman
4. Have they done a good job? Let them know
“Yes, they are fulfilling their objectives, but for that I hired them.” If you have ever uttered these words, it may be time to rethink such an attitude. We all need a pat on the back from time to time to have the courage to move on. And no, doing so will not make you weak in the face of others.
Acknowledging your employees’ achievements are the best compliments — Ako Stark
5. Treat them with respect
People who feel happy with their employment remain in it for longer, and also, they give much more than what is expected of them. And, who likes to be trampled all the time? Meet with your employees frequently to make sure they are happy with what they do. Also, have an “open door” policy so that they feel comfortable talking to you about whatever bothers them.
6. Give them autonomy
Do you tend to want to control everything? Do you ask them to let you know about each task they perform during the day? Most likely, they feel suffocated and at the first opportunity seek to run from you. Tell them what they should do and let them do it! Asking for daily reports or having meetings every time will drastically reduce your desire to work.
7. That not everything is work!
Productivity is important, but thinking only about work and considering everything else as “distractions” will generate a tense and unattractive work environment. From time to time, he organizes recreational activities that allow them to move their minds away from work and strengthen ties in the team. How about a ping-pong tournament? A race? An exit to a restaurant? Please: treat your employees as human beings and not as a number.
8. Offer them growth opportunities
Beyond salary and good treatment, employees seek professional growth. Offer them the opportunity to develop their skills as well as learn new things, whether or not they are directly related to their area. It offers your workers the possibility of becoming valuable employees for the organization.
9. Allow them to have flexible schedules
If you trust in your organizational capacity, give them the opportunity to manage their schedule to accommodate their personal needs. This, as well as the possibility of working from home, will result in greater efficiency as well as high motivation.
Nothing can be more frustrating than feeling that your time is not valued. Can you imagine how you make your employees feel if you are late for meetings, change times five times or ask them to stay late to complete a task — which may well wait until the next day? Respect their schedules, just as you would expect them to respect yours.
Do you agree with these tips? What would you add? Share this article so other may find it.
