Blog Post: Motivation during Tough Times

Although we’re starting to see signs of the economy picking up things are still unsettled.  Some companies are forced to cut costs and even go through layoffs.  As managers, owners and human resource professionals we must keep everyone focused on the business at hand.  If people become distracted or disengaged, the business will suffer. 

I strongly believe the underlying cure to this possible scenario is creating a shared vision or goal.  Depending on your organization this can be done by department or throughout the whole company.  This will make people focus on something positive rather than the surrounding negatives.  The shared goal or vision will create buy in.  It gives hope.  It creates a feeling of teamwork. 

Hold a meeting and be honest with people.  Tell them how things currently sit; work together to create the shared goal.  Make plans on how to get there.  If possible, designate milestones and perks when they are hit.  If things are truly tight do something simple like lunch where everyone contributes their favorite dish.  Anything you can do to get people working together toward a shared goal rather than worrying about job or company security is a good thing!