For an organization, it’s employees are its assets. And as per the popular belief. “Happy employees are productive employees”. Therefore, unmotivated employees can cause a huge loss to the organization. The lack of motivation might result in a depressing workplace that can give rise to toxic work culture later on. Hence a workplace should be keen to identify the signs of unmotivated employees and take corrective measures.
Signs of unmotivated workers
- Frequent Absences
While absentees are common in a work setting due to health problems and other emergencies, frequent absentees indicate a deeper problem i.e., demotivation or hatred towards the job.
- Constant Conflict
Complaining about work and complains about a manager, a peer or a boss are all signs that an employee is deeply unhappy with their job.
- Loss of Quality in Work
Incomplete reports, incorrect data sheets and idleness at work are a sign of a broken spirit.
- Employee Burnout
Employee burnout is a type of workplace stress where workers feel general dissatisfaction with their work. The end result is an employee who no longer feels up to task of their daily work leading to overall reduced productivity.
Consequences of Unmotivated Employees
- Lower Productivity
Unmotivated employees suffer from lower productivity. Without sufficient motivation to finish tasks, the company risks delivering late orders and submitting subpar work to clients.
- Increased Staff Turnover
Workers who do not feel challenged or involved in their work are more likely to resign and look for work elsewhere.
- Toxic Workplace
Unmotivated employees have a detrimental impact on the organizational culture. When new employees join the company, they usually adopt the attitudes and behaviors of older employees. If there is apathy and a lack of enthusiasm in the workplace, prospective employees may adopt the same attitude, this could harm the organization’s image.
Tips on How to Overcome Demotivation at Work
Managing a workplace is probably the most challenging part of a business no matter how large or how small an organization is. An organization has to be productive and efficient but also keen on the company’s growth collectively.
- Invest in Office Décor
Our surroundings have a role in our subconscious minds and especially when it comes to an office setup, the décor can be a huge factor in keeping employees productive hence investing in the right setup is a long lasting investment that gives returns. Choose a workplace with an open layout, opt for motivating colors, wall art with motivational quotes and set your office space with ergonomic furniture
- Make Your Workplace Diverse
Your work setting could be ideal for some, while to others it is a suffocating place with no motivation to work. Therefore, you must plan to please a wide range of people. Add an element of fun as you add seriousness. Make sure you blend the traditional work setting with modern office layout.
- Building Strong Relationships
A workplace where employees feel unheard and unvalued will kill their motivation to work. You must have a proper communication channel to ensure your employees feel heard and valued. This will make. Them confident and more likely to work with positive enthusiasm rather than forced responsibility.
- Compensation
When employees don’t feel like their compensation lines up with their work or the amount of time they are being asked to work, things can get complicated quickly. You can influence this with proper renumeration package and bonus structure frameworks in place.
- Realize the Challenges
It’s easy for employees to become dishearten when they feel in a rut or don’t have the appropriate to accomplish their job, whether because a project takes longer than expected or because resources are few. Recognize problems and collaborate on solutions as a group. Allowing folks to vent or get things off their chest is enough: you don’t have to cure everything, listening and empathizing can go a long way.
- Positive Affirmations
Positive affirmations are a great way to keep the positive energy flowing in the workplace. Hold regular weekly sessions to discuss progress and motivate the employees to do well. Rather than plain criticism focus on constructive criticism so your employees are eager to over deliver. Teach them about work etiquette so that they do not lack discipline nor do they feel overwhelmed.