The smart business owner knows that when workers are allowed to participate in the day to day operations of the company, they will work harder. If each person feels like a valuable member of the team, they will want to help the company succeed. Listed below are some key tactics that may help motivate your workers.

1. Involve People in Company Decisions

When employees are permitted to make some of the daily decisions, they are more apt to take ownership in the project. This also helps them think like a team player that is working for the good of the company. When workers’ opinions are valued, they will feel more confident in sharing their thoughts in the future as well.

Not only will this endeavor make your team members more engaged, but they might also identify waste in operations and suggest ways to save money. Some of the best continual improvement ideas come from workers, because they see firsthand the flow of operations and the areas where waste can be eliminated.

2. Share the Company Business Plan

It’s a smart idea for companies to share as much business information as they can with workers. Schedule monthly or quarterly business meetings with the whole team in which you share sales strategies and profits, as well as the company’s goals for the year. This helps workers better understand the “big picture” and see where they fit into the puzzle.

3. Keep Your Promises

Don’t make promises you know you can’t keep. If you aren’t sure you’ll be able to follow through with something, don’t make the promise. Even something you perceive as small may be a big deal to your employees, which they probably won’t forget. Breaking trust with your workers will make them question you the next time, and it lowers morale and productivity.

4. Thank Workers

One of the best motivators is a sincere word of thanks for a job well done. Employees want to feel appreciated and managers must acknowledge hard work. Drop by their desk to thank them or write them an email of thanks. If applicable, copy your boss on the email as well so that top management is aware of the efforts. Your worker will also see that you aren’t taking credit for their work.

A business is only as good as the people working there, so the savvy business owner makes the team feel engaged and valued.