It's a question that demands an answer beyond the realm of routine employee engagement surveys and ping pong tables in the canteen. Motivation should be seen as an ongoing commitment to fostering a positive workplace culture, where the contributions of each individual are not just recognised but celebrated. Ultimately, prioritising employee motivation isn't just a strategy; it's the cornerstone of driving both success and transformative change. Getting this right is absolutely crucial.

Companies  should pay attention to employees who are not motivated. When employees aren't engaged, they don't work as well, and they might leave the company. Keeping employees happy and interested in their work is key to a successful business. Itmeans less employee turnover and keeping talent in the business. Want reasons to care look no further than Amazon and Yahoo as big examples.

The perpetual cycle of change organisations now do can lead to 'change fatigue,' a very real phenomenon where employees feel overwhelmed and demoralized by constant shifts in their work environment. This can significantly impact team motivation and in turn hitting crucial milestones.

A surprising Gallup report reveals that only 15% of workers globally are truly engaged in their job. Why is this alarming trend so prevalent?  A major factor is feeling stuck.  Many employees wary of the economic climate, fear of leaving their job, turning them into unhappy and sometimes vocal employees dragging their teams down with them.

Yet, amidst this challenging landscape, there is a beacon of hope. Recognizing the importance of support for teams and individuals with strategies to counteract change fatigue and rekindle motivation do help.

Things you can do:

1. Frequent Feedback: Regular feedback means voices are heard and ideas can be taken forward. You don’t have to act on everything, that’s not possible but doing a few things and explaining why you can’t do others helps.  Feedback also helps with clarity for everyone and supports positive recognition which can significantly boost team motivation. 

2. Promote Progression: share stories of advancement and create opportnites for skill and self development. Offering workshops that are focused on developing skills for career development can reinvigorate employee motivation. 

3. Be a Guide: A leader's influence on team morale and productivity is paramount. Helping managers and leaders know how to have great conversations that support individuals, set gaols that feel achievable and set direction helps everyone feel motivated – the old saying that people leave jobs not managers is true.