The most valuable asset a company has is its people. Without the talent we can’t build, sell or support products or come up with brilliant ideas to expand our success. Our employees are the cornerstone of our success. If our people are unhappy, it will impact all factors within the business. Happy employees result in happy customers.
I strongly believe that most people want to do a great job at work. Being great at our chosen careers brings a sense of personal pride and satisfaction. If we’re enjoying our job and the people we work with, and feel supported by our manager, then we come to work every day looking forward to making a positive difference in everything we do.
Here are the 12 elements I have found to be paramount in creating a great place to work:
- Challenging and exciting work environment
- Meaningful work, making a difference and a contribution
- Opportunities to learn and build their career
- Great People
- Good Boss
- Autonomy, a sense of control over their work
- Compensated fairly and for increased contribution
- Employee understands and is passionate about the Company direction
- Pride in working for an “Employer of Choice”
- Job Security
- Family Friendly
- Cutting Edge Technology
So how can managers motivate employees? The first and most valuable tool we have is communication. It is important to create an environment of open communication where employees feel their manager is accessible and not only gives feedback but also receives feedback. An employee needs to feel supported and that the company is invested in them by offering training and development opportunities as well as coaching when necessary. And, finally, everyone wants to be appreciated and recognized. Show your gratitude for a job well done. A simple kudos in the hallway or a brief email goes a long way to encouraging and motivating employees. The more we invest in our employees and make the company a great place to work, the more likely employees will stay and produce amazing results.
