Motivated employees rely on their own resources to get the job done. They have an inner drive that causes them to provide outstanding customer service. Unmotivated employees simply want to get by doing the minimum amount of work possible. Experts agree you can't force someone to be motivated. Supervisors can, however, provide a workplace environment that encourages employees to make decisions, deal positively with co-workers and receive recognition for hard work. At the next staff meeting or in a company e-mail, list a few simple tips such as "How To Provide Amazing Service to Stressed-Out Customers". Then provide practical ways for your employees to place the emphasis on serving your customers.

In a January 1998 Roper Poll, it was found 9 out of 10 employees will work harder for you if you show an interest in their growth outside of work. This statistic opens up a wealth of ways to motivate employees. One company had a bulletin board in the staff lounge with the caption "Greatest Pets In The World". It was constantly covered with pictures of adorable puppies and all types of pets owned by the staff. Here are some other ways for you to show entry level employees you care about them as people.

- Discover your employee's interests. If an employee loves gardening, give them a small plant in appreciation for their hard work. People appreciate knowing you gave them a gift geared towards their interest or hobby.

- Never underestimate the power of meaningful conversation. Asking an employee, "How did your son do at the basketball tournament?" shows you care about more than their ability to create the company website.

- Many businesses see an increase in workload during the holidays. Help staff reduce stress by purchasing Panic buttons. These bright red, actual computer keys are imprinted with PANIC. Double backed adhesive lets you attach them to any item that brings you frustration. www.panicbuttons.com

These types of activities help employees feel staff cares about them as individuals, not simply employees. Then, when management reinforces policies such as arriving to work on time and cutting back on sending holiday e-mail cards, employees are more receptive.

The University of Kansas psychology department studied other ways to motivate employees. Their results showed recognition was a strong factor in developing employees with high work standards. Again, giving recognition doesn't take a huge budget. One supervisor gives "psychological paychecks". When employees receive their paychecks, he attaches a Post-it note on the envelope with a specific positive statement such as, "Helen, Thank you for coming in early last week during the budget crunch."

Employees take pride in knowing their extra efforts are acknowledged. Begin staff meetings with public praise for an employee's efforts or contributions to the department. Wouldn't you enjoy being in a meeting that starts with, "Last week, Jennifer came in as a substitute on incredibly short notice. I'd like to thank her by giving her this gift...a submarine sandwich!" Keep people informed. As much as possible, let employees know what is going on. Rumors and gossip uncertainty do little to motivate employees. Reward employees who recommend new employees. Send balloons or flowers to an employee's house if they deserve special recognition.

Oprah Winfrey has the budget to motivate her employees with exotic gifts and luxury vacations. Most supervisors and managers need to rely on creativity and perhaps a Panic button. The point is the same...letting employees know you appreciate their efforts and hard work results in highly motivated employees.