IMPROVE MORALE: OFFER WORDS OF ENCOURAGEMENT

When words of encouragement are underused in the workplace, employee turnover can skyrocket, as will costs associated with recruiting and retraining. Fat paychecks don't always make employees happy, but words of encouragement, compliments, and recognition go a long way in keeping employee morale and productivity high.

Without encouragement from managers and supervisors, employee motivation and job satisfaction can plummet. Little to no feedback creates insecurity and confusion. However, taking a few minutes each day to recognize hard workers, praise a job well done, and build your vocabulary of encouraging words can boost morale and increase employee motivation.

Even at home, words of encouragement can energize your roommate, spouse, or children. It is imperative to use positive reinforcement to build self-esteem and inspire confidence, even when you aren't in the mood to be positive. Whether speaking to children or adults, make it a point to use encouraging words and phrases every day.

Recognition is a great motivator. It lets others know you are paying attention to them. You never know what a simple "great job on that project" can do for a coworker, or how "what a great achievement!" can affect a family member. Using words of encouragement can improve your attitude as much as the person receiving the encouragement. So be generous (and genuine) with your compliments and recognition.

• Make your words of encouragement personal. A hearty "you can do it" may sound condescending to an overachiever, but it may be exactly what the new intern needs to hear.
• Make your words of encouragement genuine. People respect what they earn.
• Deliver words of encouragement right away. The more immediate the reinforcement for desirable behavior, the more effective it is.
• Offer words of encouragement frequently. Before long, the desired behavior becomes a habit.

Related information is available on employee motivation.