Today, organizations are facing the “Great Resignation”, which simply means people are voluntarily leaving their jobs in record numbers. This has put increased stress on those left behind to pick up the workload in order to meet both team and organizational objectives. This added stress can demotivate the remaining people who in turn may then end up leaving their organization. This spiral effect can cripple and/or destroy an organization if not addressed proactively.
Ideally, teams are energetic, cooperative, and driven to succeed. When teams are motivated to that level, the leader provides direction and support to keep them on track and accomplish goals. When teams do not have this level of motivation, it is the responsibility of the leader to provide the spark that lights the fire of motivation inside their team. When this spark is lit and people are re-engaged and reenergized with motivation, then they are less likely to voluntarily leave their jobs.
Leaders must start by examining how they are leading to make sure they are not demoralizing or demotivating the team. Many leaders may unintentionally undermine the motivation of the team by the way they interact with the team. This can show up when leaders criticize, condemn, complain, don’t listen, play favorites, lack transparency, are sarcastic, order instead of asking, and don’t interact with the team. These types of behaviors, whether conscious or unconscious, may demotivate people and cause them to leave the organization.
Organizations that are serious about the motivation and retention of their people may want to use an assessment tool, such as a 360 assessment, to see how leaders are perceived by their team, colleagues, and immediate manager. These 360 assessments can hurt the ego, as it reveals blind spots. Leaders that have a perception that is not in alignment with how those around them view their performance may get defensive. So, it is recommended to have a third party debrief the results and help create a plan of action.
Once leaders within the organization develop more consistent motivational leadership practices, people will begin to regain their enthusiasm, excitement, and drive to work as a team. This newfound energy will decrease attrition, increase engagement, and help the organization prosper.
[vcex_divider color=”#dddddd” width=”100%” height=”1px” margin_top=”20″ margin_bottom=”20″]
Interested in learning strategies to retain your employees? Join us for a complimentary webinar on retention strategies for leaders.
Retention Strategies for Leaders
August 25, 2022
9:00 AM to 10:30 AM
Investment: Free