When it comes to keeping employees motivated, there are a number of factors to keep in mind—from communicating goals and expectations to showing interest in your employees’ professional aspirations. You can have all the team building exercises, engagement programs and perks, but the number one incentive to keeping employees engaged and productive is having a good boss. That is the best incentive of all.

Many organizations underestimate the power of great leadership in increasing employee motivation, engagement and retention. Over the course of my career, I have only had two good bosses. As I think back, this was the single biggest determinant of whether I stayed or left a company. It does not always have to do with the size of your paycheck, the length of your commute, or the everyday tasks you do – what matters most to workplace happiness are the qualities your manager brings to their job. A boss sets the tone of the organization.

Please don’t get me wrong. Yes, motivation is intrinsic but dealing with a bad boss for 8-10 hours a day, 5 days a week, can even wear out the most loyal employees. According to an article published by World Economic Forum, 70% of employees consider themselves to be disengaged at work. The University of California found that demotivated employees are 31% less productive, are 3x less creative and 87% more likely to quit than motivated employees. There is mounting evidence that happy workers are more productive workers which translates into higher stock market returns. Maybe it’s time companies invest more effort and resources into management selection and ongoing training. A manager’s job is to facilitate a good working environment for his/her employees. Few things are as costly and disruptive as managers who kill morale. Many bosses can manage processes but they are not apt in leading people which calls for inspiration, vision and soft skills.

What Employees really want? It all starts with Strong Leadership.

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