De-motivating Employees

Most managers really do know the importance of motivating their employees. Although the effort is exceptional, the results can sometimes be much less than expected. Why? Well, one reason may be the manager is still doing things that de-motivate the employee. Although unintentional, these de-motivators are still very effective.

Managing can be a very difficult job. There is a lot to remember to do. There are also a lot of things we should remember NOT to do. Here is a list of Manager Mistakes we should all avoid.

Top 10 New Manager Mistakes

You Know Everything. Many managers are managers because they were very good operators. You might know a lot about the product, processes and policies but you do not know everything. Managing is more than process and equipment knowledge. The most important aspect of managing is the people. Listen to the people around you. Seek their input when appropriate and keep an open mind.

Show Everyone You’re In Charge. Interestingly, there is little argument about who is the manager. There is no reason to prove it. There is no reason to make a big show about being “the boss”. You do have to demonstrate you are making a positive difference.

Change Everything. Do not re-invent the wheel. Processes and procedures someone else put into place may not be exactly as you would have done them but that does not mean they are wrong. Different does not mean wrong – learn the difference between “different” and “wrong”.

Afraid to Do Anything. Maybe you didn’t ask for the promotion, you’re not sure you can do the job. Do not let fear prevent you from doing the best you can. You would not have been promoted if upper management didn’t have confidence in your ability to step up to the plate. You can do it.

Do Not Spend Time Getting to Know Your People. Although you may have worked alongside these people for years, that doesn’t mean you know them. Learning what makes people exited, how to motivate and what fears or worries they have, provides a foundation for more effectively leading them to greater hights. Get to know them as individuals. The people are what makes or breaks a good manager. Give them your attention and time.

Don’t Waste Time With Boss. Your job as a manger, just like an operator’s, is to help your boss. Make sure to budget enough time to meet with your supervisor to both give information and receive guidance and training.

Do Not Worry About Problems or Problem Employees. Don’t avoid problems or expect them to work themselves out. When something comes up, it is the manager’s job to figure out the best solution and get it done. This doesn’t mean you cannot ask for assistance or advice, it does mean it is your responsibility to make sure it is addressed.

Not Being Human. Bosses are humans too. Being the boss doesn’t mean you can’t laugh, show emotion, or make an occasional mistake.

Throw Them Under the Bus. Your employees are under pressure from all directions. Blame for failure comes flying in from other departments. Your boss may want to dump on your department. HR may determine the employees in your department are overpaid. It is the manager’s job to stand up for his or her employees, making sure they are treated as fairly as possible. That loyalty will be returned to you.

Avoiding Responsibility for Anything. As the manager you are responsible for everything that happens in your group. Everything. You may have not done it, or even knew about it. What your group does, or does not do, reflects on you and is your responsibility. Build appropriate communications to avoid surprises and be prepared to should the responsibility.