Ali Beheshti, CEO @ Zealie, on Managers Motivating Employees

To put it simply, the best managers motivate their employees. If the employees are not feeling motivated, the manager is not fulfilling all aspects of the job. There have been many different theories proposed as to how best motivate humans and employees, and while those theories and ideas can be useful in specific situations, managers will be unable to assess the right way to motivate without understanding one key aspect: intimately knowing the employee.

While it may seem like an overwhelming task to get to know all employees, there are many tactics to help increase employee motivation and build strong work-relationships.

Communication. The first step in forming any stable relationship is an efficient form of communication. Employees need to understand their role in the organization, what is expected of them, and what to expect from their employers. Through effective communication, employees can understand the company vision and know how to be a part of the company’s success in achieving that vision.

The Vision. As mentioned above, employees should understand the vision. However, that entails more than sharing the expected gross margin or the plans for a new location. A great manager helps the employee connect with the importance of their contribution and the overall success it generates.

Feedback. When asking how great managers motivate their employees, it is common to hear about recognition. While that is an integral part of team success, it often overshadows a far more useful tactic: feedback. Incorporating both strengths and weaknesses into communication helps to encourage the employee’s growth by praising their achievements, while also showing them in which areas to focus more attention.

Balance. All great managers understand that employees with a well-balanced work-life are happier and more productive while at work. Cultivate a culture that enables employees to take time off for vacations and personal time so that when they are at work, they are really at work.

Transparency. Nothing enables confidence and trust more than openness and transparency. When all employees feel welcome to offer thoughts, ask questions, and provide solutions, the results are sustained employee motivation, loyalty, and pride.

Individuality. To be a great manager, one must first recognize the fact of differences. Humans are all different, and what might motivate some, doesn’t always motivate them all. By learning the differences between how people within the team like to work and what drives each of them, a manager will become adept at offering proper incentives and strategizing the best way for the team to achieve success.