Running a team is full of challenges, especially if your employees aren't rising to meet the daily demands of your business. John Reeb, PhD, MBA, of Colorado Leadership Institute understands the struggle employers feel when dealing with an underperforming staff. Here, this Denver, CO-based leadership expert lists three ways you can motivate your employees to be more productive.

How to Inspire Underperforming Employees

1. Set Weekly Goals

An excellent way to motivate your employees is by setting weekly goals. Yearly or even monthly goals can seem out of reach, and for many individuals, they can negatively affect self-esteem. By breaking down larger goals into weekly segments, accomplishments feel attainable, and your team will be inspired to take on the challenge.

2. Focus on the Individual

Each individual in your staff is crucial to the success of the whole team, so it's imperative you focus your attention on everyone’s unique needs. Take time to learn about the ways your employees work best. For instance, some people feed off the input of others while others do their best work on their own. When you understand the work methods your staff prefers, you can assign tasks that encourage them to work in their most productive manner.

3. Encourage Communication

As a good leader, you should also encourage your team to communicate with you. When there's an open-door policy between the leadership and the workforce, trust is created—and employees feel comfortable providing valuable input. Such an atmosphere results in a motivated team that's ready to take on the challenges of the week ahead. 

Learn more about how to motivate your team with valuable leadership skills by contacting John Reeb at Colorado Leadership Institute. Reeb's leadership training is designed to turn managers and business owners into strong leaders. Learn more about the training opportunities available to you by visiting him online or by calling (720) 515-8081.