Improving the productivity of employees is a goal of all businesses, but how do you go about achieving it in your workplace? In this article, we share some easily implemented, practical ways that you can improve staff productivity today.
- Economic incentives
When it comes to economic incentives, businesses tend to concentrate on bonuses and performance-related pay schemes for senior managers and leaders. Often lower level employees are left out of the equation altogether. But if you want to get the most out of your employees then offering economic incentives as a reward for hard work is a great idea – after all, it works for senior managers, doesn’t it? And if you’re worried about costs, then make sure your programme is carefully structured and is closely linked to the achievement of performance or revenue targets.
- Provide meaningful feedback
Constructive feedback is the cornerstone of effective management practices. Staff cannot grow and develop without knowing how they’re doing. So, give praise when praise is due and when the feedback is not so positive, present it in a thoughtful way as a time for reflection and it’s more likely to be received well and acted on. And it’s worth remembering that research suggests providing praise and recognition when it’s due is probably the single most important way to increase employee productivity across the board. In fact, recognition is often a more powerful motivator for employees than monetary rewards. You see, most of us are wired to respond to positive encouragement so make sure that you recognise and praise all the positive aspects, rather than having areas for improvement as your main focus.
- Be a proactive trainer and developer of staff
Providing adequate staff training and development opportunities is another way to enhance productivity. It shows that staff really matter in your organisation and that you value their input. Regularly review where staff are at and identify any training and development opportunities that could enhance their productivity. And these opportunities don’t always have to be expensive external courses and conferences either. Nowadays, there’s a wealth of free or low-cost resources available online. Alternatively, look at less expensive internal options such as mentoring, work shadowing or secondments.
- Model the right behaviours
It’s important that business owners and senior leaders model the right behaviours as staff members are always watching and judging. Perceiving the operation of double standards by senior managers can have a demoralising effect on staff members, resulting in decreased productivity. And so, as a business owner or manager, it’s important that you walk the talk and are seen to be actively displaying the attributes you expect from employees.
Improving staff productivity is a combination of good management practices, the right company culture and all-round employee engagement. Take a step back from the day to day and make sure you have the right formula with these easily implemented steps.