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Monday, March 18, 2024
March 18, 2024

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All-too-common phrase stifles motivation, growth among employees

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Here’s a line managers toss at employees that seems reasonable at the time but could have consequences for productivity, motivation and self-improvement: “As long as you get your work done.”

Although it’s a phrase that sets managers apart as quasi-hands-off and trusting, it could cause problems with two types of employees: those who do what they’re told to do and nothing more; and those who want to go above and beyond the scope of their job descriptions and add value to the company.

• Those who do what they’re told to do and nothing more. Unfortunately, this type likely makes up a large percentage of employees. They come to work, know what they need to do and get it done. Managers can hand them extra tasks, and they’ll probably get those done, too. But sometimes, managers need a little more out of employees. Offices need thinkers, doers, self-starters, collaborators, innovators, chance-takers, go-getters and visionaries. Workers probably promised some of those things when they interviewed for the job. Here’s where the “as long as you get your work done” mantra backfires.

Employees: “Hey, boss, can we telecommute on Fridays?”

Manager: “Uh, sure. I don’t see a problem with that … as long as you get your work done.”

With that, the manager just gave workers license to maintain the status quo. Nothing else is required: no new ideas, no brainstorming, no collaborating, no excitement for the job, nothing extra. They’re just getting their work done.

• Those who want to go above and beyond their job descriptions. If there are a few of these on staff, give them room to grow. But there’s a downside of using the mantra here.

Employees: “Hey, boss. We’ve got this great idea we’d like to try.”

Manager: “Well, yes. I suppose … as long as you get your work done.”

That’s no way to nurture employees who show alacrity in their jobs and the mission of the organization. Reminding them that they have their base obligations to fill first is demeaning. They know that. And demanding that they get their work done first tells them that their ideas are second-rate and not particularly welcome.

Nothing kills motivation faster.

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