When Employee Productivity Plummets, employers need to be able to recognize the signs and work to address the underlying issues. Let’s face it, we all face those days when we are just in a slump at work. It’s to be expected on occasion, but if it persists and your company is beginning to suffer, it’s time to take action.
When Employee Productivity Plummets, here is what to do:
- Ask, “is there anything you want to talk about?” Your employee may be dealing with personal or other professional issues about which you have no knowledge. They may want to share, but might not have felt comfortable doing so. Don’t force the issue, but do ask the question.
- Are your employees working crazy hours? Are they enmeshed in a large project that means they need to work nights, weekends, holidays? If so, what can you do to not only keep the project moving forward but be cognizant of the potential for burnout? Offering a day off might just reignite the spark and reenergize the team.
- Are they confused on the direction of a task? Are there conflicting messages? Deadlines? Have reporting deadlines or metrics changed without any warning? Communication is key to productivity. Foster open lines of communication and keep key players in the loop.
- Don’t discount world events as stressors in your employees’ lives.
- Ask, “what can I do to help?” Just saying those words may open the lines of communication and pave the way for you and your staff to get back on track.
What are your best practice tips for motivating a team when enthusiasm is waning? Do you have any hacks that you have tried that worked? We’d love to know them!