Employee productivity is a very important factor contributing to the growth of an organisation. When you invest in the working hours of your employee, it is quite natural to expect a steady ROI ( read – undivided attention and impeccable productivity.) However, it would be extremely unrealistic to expect that, many other factors govern their lives, and hoping that your employees are simply going to give it their 100 percent without an additional incentive is in vain.
So, what exactly can you, as a leader, do to supercharge your employees and improve their productivity? Here are a few pointers:
Know your goals and your team
Set precise goals and break them down into clear action points. Thereafter, you need to understand how your team will contribute to the achievement of those goals. Take a hard look at who is doing what and judge if you have assigned the right team for the right role. Often, we fail to do this in an organisation and, thus, end up losing not just valuable resources, but also potential positive outcomes. Know the job roles of every individual in your team. Speak to them personally and make them feel like they are a part of your journey.
Motivate your team visually
Incorporate motivational quotes by successful people in your office décor. It could be in the form of posters, coffee mugs, notebooks – just about anything! Ensure that the working area is well-lit and has a pleasant ambience. Use bright feel-good colours and adopt innovative interior designs.
Connect with your team
Don’t spend all your working hours at your work desk. Take some time and make an effort to connect with your team. Listen to what your employees have to say. Ask them to contribute ideas and suggestions for the organisation. Do not shy away from their suggestions about how they can contribute better to the organisation.
Facilitate team bonding
In addition to conventional methods like regular meet-ups and team outings, include other fun activities for your team. Divide them into different groups and let them compete against each other to improve creativity and enhance problem-solving and team-building skills. These activities can also be done outside office in case you are up for a quick break from the workspace!
Be prepared
Do not procrastinate the training of your new employees. Ensure that they are prepared with the knowledge base as well as the tools and resources required. These training sessions can be supervised by older employees, which, in turn, will help boost their morale as well.
Be human!
Debunk leadership myths and be a true leader. Accept that it is okay to let your guard down and show your employees your humane side. Be open to their ideas, suggestions, opinions and even problems. Make them feel valued. Praise publicly, but reprimand privately. Don't punish employees when they try something and fail. Help them learn lessons that will enable them to succeed the next time. Treat your employees with dignity and respect.
As author and consultant David Allen said, “If you don't pay appropriate attention to what has your attention, it will take more of your attention than it deserves.” And so it is with your employees.
