Concentrate on these key practices of managers who know how to motivate and energize their workforces:

• Look to the future. Don’t let day-to-day operations bog people down. Make a point of reminding employees of your long-term goals and opportunities. You’ll give them something to look forward to as they carry out their tasks.
  

• Share examples of success—and failure. Success stories tell employees what they’re capable of if they work hard. But tales of failure demonstrate that they’re not alone, and that they can overcome obstacles if they refuse to get discouraged.
  

• Reinforce positive behavior. Start by serving as a good example of high performance for your team: Be punctual, energetic, and optimistic. Then be sure to recognize persistence, consistency, and engagement in your workplace whenever you spot it in your employees.
  

• Show consistency. Employees need to know what to expect from you and your organization. Don’t change the rules from day to day, nor treat people differently for arbitrary reasons. Reiterate your goals and stick to your strategy; if you’re continually changing direction, employees will grow confused and will stop giving you their best efforts.
  

• Ask for suggestions. Employees usually know what will motivate them better than their managers do. Find out what they’re looking for in their careers, and what kind of rewards they value. Fulfilling their needs will show you care about them as individuals and will earn their trust and loyalty.