What makes employees want to bring their best every day? It’s not about piling on more pressure or constantly raising expectations — it’s about creating an environment where people feel appreciated and connected to the bigger picture. When your team members know their work matters, they’re far more likely to go beyond the basics and give that extra effort.
That’s why building a culture of appreciation and purpose is so powerful. It not only inspires strong performance but sparks the kind of discretionary effort where the real magic happens. How can you naturally get people to put in the extra effort? We share some guidance from Insperity’s Adyna Akins in this issue of PromoPro Daily.
Make sure the right people are in the right places. When you want to ensure your team members are doing their best, you first have to make sure they’re doing work they enjoy and they’re generally good at it. When you have this foundation, Akins says it’s a circle that feeds itself.
Build a culture of trust. Where do you start? Akins advises using your company values and mission as a foundation. Communicate your vision clearly and often with your team. Then, Akins says you must connect the value of what people do to that vision. This gives them purpose and focus and demonstrates how the work they do is valued and makes a difference.
Reward positive outcomes. Maybe it’s a simple fist bump and a “good job on that presentation” when you see them in the hallway. Or, Akins says your reward system might include more tangible things like PTO days or lunch out. When you acknowledge the good that people are doing, you’ll often get more of it. Since different people appreciate different things, find out what would mean the most to each team member and tailor your approach accordingly.
Remove roadblocks. Akins recommends being an advocate for your team members by finding and garnering resources, tools and support to help succeed. She says this can take the form of collaboration with peers too. Look for ways to work collaboratively as a team and let those bonds form organically.
Provide opportunities for growth. When you want to inspire your team members to go above and beyond, show them you believe in them by encouraging their professional growth. Akins says this could mean providing development opportunities or adjusting assignments in ways that leverage what they are good at.
Be the change you want to see. Remember that your team is watching you. If you bring your best and do your best, they will too. Akins says you should try to model positive attitudes and your best listening skills. And, above all, show up as your most authentic, real self.
When employees show up to work wanting to do their best, it’s the hallmark of a strong culture. Getting them to want to put in extra effort isn’t something that can be forced. It requires a thoughtful approach and wanting your team to succeed.
Compiled by Audrey Sellers
Source: Adyna Akins is performance improvement manager at Insperity. She has more than 30 years of experience in organizational development.
