Workplace

last updated 8 January 2015

When it comes to inspiring employees to be more productive and enthusiastic, “leaders often miss the mark,” said David Javitch in Entrepreneur.com. Their first big mistake is to assume that workers are motivated by money alone. In fact, the effects of a raise or bonus are “often short term at best.” Studies show that recognition and status have a more lasting impact on output. Employers also tend not to worry about motivating their smartest employees. Big mistake: “Intelligence and self-motivation do not necessarily go hand in hand.” In fact, bright employees are often vulnerable to boredom and frustration—so find out what those staffers are interested in and tweak their job descriptions accordingly.

While you’re scrutinizing your underlings, take a look at your own productivity, said Tyler Cowen in Money. “It’s amazing how many bosses forget that their habits set the tone.” You want to work hard enough to “be an inspiring example” but not so hard that your impossible pace ends up sending your “best employees packing.” Remember, too, that even the most productive employees can slip into “just-enough-to-get-by mode” if they don’t feel a sense of urgency. “Always keep a new goal in front of them—a measurable one, with specific deadlines every step of the way.”