Getting employees to work harder isn’t about squeezing more hours out of them. It’s about inspiring them to WANT to give their best. The secret? Smart leadership, not endless grind.
If your team is dragging, unmotivated, or on the verge of burnout, you might be missing some key leadership moves. The best managers don’t just push for results—they create an environment where people naturally work harder because they feel valued, challenged, and energized.
So, how do you get employees to give 110% without running them into the ground? We at the HBB Group have put together a list of ways to do just that.
1. Give Them a Reason to Care
People don’t work hard for managers; they work hard for meaning. If your employees see their work as just a paycheck, their effort will match that mindset. But if they see a purpose—something bigger than themselves—they’ll naturally put in more effort.
How:
- Show them the impact of their work. Connect tasks to real-world results.
- Share company wins and how their contributions made a difference.
- Align their personal goals with company goals. If they grow, so does the business.
2. Set High Expectations—But With Support
The best managers challenge employees, but they don’t leave them stranded. Setting high expectations without providing resources or guidance is a recipe for stress, not success.
How to do it:
- Challenge them with stretch goals, but be available to help.
- Give regular feedback—both praise and constructive tips.
- Be a coach, not just a boss. Offer training, mentorship, and support.
3. Recognise and Reward Effort (Not Just Results)
People crave appreciation. When employees feel their hard work goes unnoticed, motivation plummets. But when effort is recognized, it fuels a cycle of engagement and productivity.
For example:
- Give shoutouts in meetings or company channels.
- Offer small rewards like gift cards, extra PTO, or even a simple thank-you note.
- Celebrate progress, not just final outcomes.
4. Make Work Enjoyable (Yes, Really!)
People work harder when they actually like being at work. A toxic or overly rigid environment kills motivation faster than you can say “burnout.”
How:
- Create a culture where employees feel safe, heard, and respected.
- Allow autonomy—trust them to get the job done their way.
- Make room for fun: team lunches, casual Fridays, or even a laugh in meetings go a long way.
5. Help Them Recharge—Not Crash
If your team is exhausted, their productivity (and quality of work) will tank. Burnout isn’t a badge of honour—it’s a business killer. Great managers know when to push and when to pull back.
Use strategies such as:
- Encourage real breaks—no “working lunches” every day.
- Respect work-life boundaries. No late-night emails or weekend calls unless it’s an emergency.
- Offer mental health support, wellness programs, or even just an open-door policy for stress check-ins.
6. Train your Managers & Staff
- Offer Training and Skill Development Opportunities: The best managers will encourage their team to grow by providing opportunities for skill development. When employees feel they are learning and advancing in their role, they are more likely to be engaged and motivated. Training could include tailored training programs, mentorship, or opportunities for cross-training within the company.
- Create Clear Career Paths: Staff are more likely to work hard when they see a future with the company. Managers can help by outlining potential career progression within the business and offering guidance on how to achieve professional growth. Feeling like they are advancing toward personal goals will undoubtably motivate employees to work harder.
Great managers don’t demand more—they inspire more. When employees feel valued, supported, and part of something meaningful, they naturally put in more effort without burning out.
So, if you want your team to work harder, don’t just “crack the whip”. Give them a reason to care, challenge them in the right way, recognise their efforts, and make work a place they WANT to show up to. The results will speak for themselves.
Ready to take your Leadership Team to the next level? Unlock your Leader’s full potential and drive your business forward with expert guidance and strategic development.
Let’s make your leaders stronger, more effective, and ready for tomorrow’s challenges. Contact the HBB Group today to get started.
Call 1300 833 574 or email info@hbbausgroup.com.au
