by D. P. Noe

Created on: February 22, 2009   Last Updated: April 16, 2009

Leaders need to recognize that motivation can be defined as the element that can initiate and direct behavior of employees.Motivated employees look for the best way to get their job done. Having a group of motivated employees will increase productivity and cohesiveness of all the employees working for an organization. A smart leader acknowledges that if you have motivated employees it will drive enhanced performance and drives employees to accomplish goals.

The first step for leaders to motivate their employees is to create a working environment where all the employees can produce the highest quality work that is possible. A talented leader will communicate that all employees are expected to perform at the high expectations that have been spelled out. Leaders must always show respect, express positive attitudes and make their employees feel valued. Positive feedback and recognition set up the framework that is needed to have motivated employees.

Managers or leaders in any organization need to educate themselves to have a basic understanding of motivation. A leader needs to have a knowledge of what is important to their employees and what motivates them. Explore what the employees like most about their job and what they like least about their job.

Have a discussion with your employees about long and short term goals. This is an eye opening opportunity to identify what interest them and ideas that will motivate them. Look for projects that focus on their goals because that will influence and motivate them to complete the project. It is very motivating for any employee to have the opportunity to shine at a project they are interested in.

Employees like to have a certain level of control at work. It is very motivating to any employee to be part of decision making and having an influence on positive changes in the working environment. Respect and being appreciated for their efforts is always a big motivator for any employee.

A successful leader will recognize that employees want to be trusted that they can complete tasks assigned to them. When a manager expresses doubt either verbally or by negative body language that an employee will not be successful, employees may lose confidence and the motivation that there is any reason to continue with a project that their leader believes will fail.

A big negative drain on motivation are leaders who micromanage their employees. It is vital to allow employees to learn to handle projects successfully. It is okay to make mistakes

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