Why is motivation important?

Motivation plays a critical role in achieving goals and business objectives and is equally as important for companies that work in a team-based environment or in a workplace comprised of workers who work independently.

Making sure each employee's workplace goals and values are aligned with the organisation's mission and vision is important for creating and maintaining a high level of motivation. That can lead to higher productivity, improved work quality and financial gain across all departments.

Motivation has become increasingly important for organisations and companies of all sizes that want to reach their organizational objectives in a competitive marketplace. Top performers of an organisation consistently provide high-quality work, maintain a high level of productivity and overcome obstacles or challenges. Helping all employees maintain a high level of motivation can help keep employees committed to working hard and contributing as much value as possible to the organisation.

You can use a variety of strategies to improve motivation. Managers who serve as leaders within the organisation can help convey the right messages to engage employees and help them grow within their positions. Motivation can be increased with incentives, feedback, rewards programs and ensuring that the workplace meets basic needs and requirements for each employee. Common types of motivational tactics include: events that raise employee morale; training and education to help employees learn new skills and grow within their positions; recognition programs to highlight hard work and reinforcing positive messages during company or team meetings.

Motivational strategies can help improve employee performance, reduce the chances of low employee morale, encourage teamwork and instil a positive attitude during challenging times. Employees with a high level of motivation typically work harder and can overcome common workplace challenges with ease; this helps the organisation reach its objectives and improve operations overall.

Any company or organisation that notices a significant decline in productivity, high employee turnover or that cannot reach its goals successfully may need to consider the role of motivation among its employees. Low motivation can trigger a variety of detrimental events that affect the organisation in the short term and in the long term. Unmotivated staff members are at risk of resigning, delivering poor-quality work and even making it difficult for other employees to do their jobs efficiently.

Reducing the risk of low motivation among employees typically requires a strategic plan and a combination of different activities and tactics that help improve employee morale. Companies that invest time and resources toward improving their employees' well-being and workplace experience can look forward to a high return on their investment as employees become more productive, maintain a positive attitude, commit to their roles and duties and maintain a strong work ethic.