It’s a challenge keeping employee motivation high. That’s because so many frustrations are born out of poor leadership practices. Whilst they are usually executed with the best of intentions, they can have a detrimental impact on employee productivity and engagement.

Here are 5 leadership behaviours that are worthy replacements for their ‘old hat’ counterparts:

TRUST AND TRACK: Replaces the old ‘command and control’ method. Explains to people why they are doing what you’ve asked them to do

EMPLOYEE EMPOWERMENT: Replaces ‘micro-management’ and the need to have a tight control on everything. Allows people to have ownership of their successes and to learn from their mistakes

CREATIVE ENGAGEMENT: Replaces ‘walking the floor’ as the sole approach when you want people to see you. Also includes watching and listening, engaging in conversation, implementing the ideas of others and distributing the results

RESPONSIBILITY CULTURE: Replaces the common ‘blame culture’ in organisations. Leaders are the first to admit they’ve messed up

PEOPLE POWER: Replaces the old ‘balance sheet’ mentality that finances inform all decisions. Employees drive the business, boosting customer loyalty, retention and profit

Our People Managers have a difficult job. In addition to being responsible for their team’s performance they must raise and maintain employee motivation levels.

So, we all have the opportunity to inspire the people we work with to give of their best each day. When that happens they benefit by being motivated and happy in their work. Also, you benefit by being part of a profitable and productive team. And the organisation benefits from increased customer engagement and the resulting revenue those relationships bring.

Sounds like a no-brainer to me!