Motivating subordinates is one of the key tasks of any team leader. Many managers, however, struggle with this task and sometimes give up on it entirely. Here are five basic and simple ways to motivate your subordinates more effectively.
Have completely clear expectations for your subordinates
If an employee does not understand exactly what is expected of them, how they should work, or what lies ahead, it certainly will not increase their motivation or confidence. All changes and requirements should therefore always be communicated to subordinates openly, clearly, and comprehensibly.
Offer the greatest possible flexibility
Within the relationship between you as an employer and your subordinates, try to offer the greatest possible degree of flexibility. Flexible working hours, working from home, or the ability to plan one’s own activities are often almost cost free measures that will nonetheless significantly increase your subordinates’ motivation and commitment.
Listen to the members of your team
As stated in an article on BBC.co.uk, frontline employees are often those who are in direct contact with clients, suppliers, or other teams within the company. Thanks to their experience, they have many insights, ideas, and comments regarding how the entire system of the team functions. Listen to your subordinates and try to respond to their requests and ideas.
Trust your subordinates and give them sufficient space for independent work
Without sufficient authority to actually change things and work effectively, employees can easily become frustrated and dissatisfied. You must equip your subordinates with the space and capabilities to work independently and effectively, and you must also show them a certain degree of trust.
Reward your subordinates adequately
Financial motivation is naturally the primary reason why your subordinates come to work at all. No matter how much you may wish otherwise, if an employee feels inadequately compensated, they will not be satisfied, motivated, or invested in their work. Reward your subordinates fairly, but also sufficiently.
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