In the past, an occasional «You’re great», a brief “Good job” or a simple «Thank you» was often enough to spread a positive mood and cheer up an employee. What is happening now with the need to be working isolated?
The beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic forced us to change our work and life from one day to another and to adapt to a “new reality” in a completely unexpected way. This creates additional stress among employees, fueled by grim news looping through the ubiquitous culture of social media. Fear, worries and insecurity are also side effects reflected in a lack of motivation. The employer needs to be there for everyone (for some more than others,) and, now more than ever, inspire a sense of togetherness.
Extraordinary times call for extraordinary measures – also from an employer
Fortunatelly we live in times in which video conferences and home offices are not unsolvable problems. Daily contact through these channels can maintain a nurturing relationship at a distance. Teams that have worked well together in the past will not experience any disadvantage and the security of being able to keep one’s job and continue to be productive is a key factor in employee morale.
In addition to regular business meetings, it is also good if there is time for personal exchange and a little informal conversation. The negative feelings mentioned above, which arise in such exceptional situations, can quickly lead to massive psychological problems and here the motto is very clear: Proactivity is prevention!
Employers need to be there for everyone and instill a sense of togetherness
Responsibilities include, for example, a communication based on honest and safe information. Awareness of the situation of colleagues strengthens and promotes concentration on the tasks to be completed and satisfaction with them. Regular workplace health promotion programs as well as a successful work-life balance and occasional after-work experiences help immensely.
How to keep your employees motivated:
1. Regular team meetings – but also one-to-one meetings
Team meetings bring everyone up to date, but one-on-one meetings are also important to nip any arising problem. An open culture of discussion that enables direct feedback is important.
2. After-work meetings and shared coffee breaks
Why not schedule an informal video after-work meeting? It’s fun and strengthens the team structure.
3. Personal training programs
Offer your employees online training opportunities and courses.
4. Communicate working hours and breaks
«Take your time and go outside to get some fresh air”. When this announcement comes from the managing director, it has a completely different, appreciative dynamic.
5. Communicate purpose
What are we working for? Especially during this time, it is important to communicate to the workforce the fundamental meaning and value of their efforts.
6. Small gifts maintain friendship
Send your employees a gift, such as a bottle of sparkling wine. You will be surprised how positively this is received.
Some of these tips have already been tried and found to be very positive… we wish you a lot of fun and success!