Reward your team for a motivated workforce

27/07/2010

According to research, over the last twelve months there has been little movement in salaries across the country, mostly remaining static. But with increased working hours, significant financial pressure and the continued threat of job losses organisations need to think creatively and reward their staff by other means where pay reviews are not available.

For an employer there are a number of strategies that can be implemented to help boost morale, increase productivity and promote staff retention. Additionally, if a number of redundancies have been made within the organisation, it is important for you to restore and maximise trust within the workplace by introducing or increasing the following:

Communication is always key; however it is particularly important during periods of change and adjustment. Management teams need to be consistent and open in the messages that they are communicating to teams, ensuring that employees are clear and up to date on activity and performance. Strong internal communication can have a significant impact on morale, as it makes employees feel part of the team - contributing to the future of the company. Additionally communication provides reassurance, which in turn will increase motivation.

Career development. Take the time to have a discussion about career development with each of the people that report to you, as it will help identify the additional training, resources and support that they feel they need. This will enable you to assess their expectations, as well as assure them of their value within the business, removing any doubts they may have regarding job security.

Teambuilding.[nbsp] As budgets get tighter, staff morale and retention is more important than ever before, as a result many employers are turning to teambuilding to get the best out of their employees.[nbsp]Bringing an organisation together for a well-planned teambuilding event not only improves internal relations but can also provide employees with reassurance for the future. Additionally, time out of the office is the perfect opportunity to present your strategy and motivate staff for the year ahead.

Other ways to motivate your staff include:

Recognition, additional responsibility, prizes and vouchers, team night out, flexible working hours, casual dress days and increased benefits including additional holidays and bonus payments.

"Your main goal should be to help people feel confident in their role, and make them believe that they have the capacity to contribute, grow and develop within the organisation. By achieving this, your workforce will become a motivated and productive team that will take the company forward.”

Kerri-Ann Boyle, manager at Sellick Partnership Finance Division