Rita Anand, Dementia specialist

BeyondGoldenEra.com

"People often say that motivation doesn't last. Well, neither does bathing -- that's why we recommend it daily." --Zig Ziglar.

While motivation has to come from within, it is possible to create a workplace that encourages, rewards, and recognizes motivation of colleagues and co-workers. It is often assumed that all people are motivated by the same things. Instead, a whole range of factors motivates us in the work place, some of which include: financial rewards, status, praise and acknowledgment, competition, job security, public recognition, fear, perfectionism. what really motivates employees, including learning about their values. Some people work for love, while others work for personal fulfillment. Some like to accomplish goals or feel as if they contribute to something larger than themselves.

Employee motivation is a continuous challenge in the work place. This is why I recommend that you energize and mobilize your staff with the “Three A’s.”

1. ASSURANCE: Build trust with your staff and assure them that they are doing great and you are there as a resource to educate and train them. Remind them often that you are there for them, whether you are a director, a manager or mentor.

2. APPRECIATION: Appreciate your staff and encourage them by saying something that is reinforcing and positive. Remind them how much they are helping you to build up a strong and caring team in the workplace.

3. AWARD: always reward your staff. Trust that this small gesture can go a long way. Consider awarding a hard-working team member with “Employee of the month” and “Certificate of Appreciation,” a gift card, or treating your employees to a special lunch or dinner.

Remember that employees need to feel a sense of purpose.

A positive motivation philosophy and practice should improve productivity, quality, and service. Motivation helps people:

Achieve goals

Gain a positive perspective

Create the power to change

Build self-esteem and capability

Manage their own development and help others with theirs.

As a manager or supervisor, your impact on employee motivation is immeasurable. By your words, your body language, and facial expression, as a manager, supervisor, or leader, you telegraph your opinion of their value to the people you employ. Feeling valued by their supervisor in the workplace is key to high employee motivation and morale. Feeling valued ranks right up there for most people with liking the work, competitive pay, opportunities for training and advancement.

Motivate and continue to educate your staff. It is the key to a successful team………