Every startup company faces highs and lows. When one thing goes well there will be fives things that won’t. As a leader, you have a responsibility to your team as well as your business. While you may be ready to devote all of your time and energy to this venture, your team might not feel the same way. So, what can you do to keep your team motivated? Here are a few tips you can use:
(Curated from Tech.co)
First, you should make sure that your team is not overworked. Startup companies frequently don’t enough resources to support a full staff so team members might have to take on more responsibilities. As the manager, you need to recognize this and make sure your team is treated fairly and given all the assistance they need.
“There’s a lot to be done, and someone has to do it. Your team members probably understand the weight that’s been placed on their shoulders. This takes a huge mental toll on them because they understand what will happen if they can’t successfully deliver. That stress will run them into the ground if they aren’t getting enough breaks. Make sure everyone is getting adequate time off. If someone is having a hard time with something, do everything you can to make their working experience easier, even if it means a two-hour lunch break.”
Next, you can reward your team with well-deserved celebrations. Show your appreciation by bringing donuts and coffee or beer and pizza. These simple gestures are great for morale.
“Believe it or not, there are actually some problems that can be fixed with pizza and beer. Startups can be overwhelming, grinding everyone’s fragile nerves. You need to celebrate your accomplishments together. You don’t have to break out fancy budget-busters – simple gestures are enough to show that you care. Happy moments are a necessity if you want to keep people from resenting their work.”
Finally, getting to know your team members as individuals instead of cogs in your company will also help you find ways to motivate them. If they feel comfortable with their team leader and bond with each other, work becomes more enjoyable.
“It can be difficult when work is piling up and there’s no sign it will let up anytime soon, but reaching out is something you can’t afford to blow off. What are their hobbies outside of the general “reading” and “spending time with loved ones”? What are they looking to accomplish in the next five years? What things are they truly, deeply passionate about? That knowledge can inspire you, allowing you to provide them with projects that best suit their potential. At the same time, they’ll understand that you care and are supportive.”
What do you do to motivate your team at your startup?
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