More in Less

An essential part of business includes finding better ways to optimize resources. A skilled leader can coax the best out of his or her people to do more in less time. I’d like to shed some light on optimizing employee energy to boost productivity.

Business productivity can take one of the two directions. Either your teams work for long, or they work smart; do more in less time. I would definitely choose the latter. According to Harvard Business Review the key is not to focus on the “dollars per hour but on labour dollars per product.”

As a leader, inspire people to become the best version of them. This is one of the challenges that confront many. Can a team member complete the same task in six hours that is now completed in eight? What must be done so that they are happier in their jobs? There is true significance in Paul J. Meyer’s words, "Productivity is never an accident. It is always the result of a commitment to excellence, intelligent planning, and focused effort."

It helps to narrow it down to some defining factors - clarity in goal setting; measuring what really matters, and respecting mental health and communication. A leader is able to nudge the team in the right direction when objectives are clearly sketched. This way, you avoid unnecessary busy time and deliver real results. I find it helpful to incorporate a system of KPIs (Key Performance Indicators) that show actual achievements directly impacting business parameters. With these, you can have a free-to-connect, pleasant work environment with transparent communication channels; high morale that values every member. I believe, as Thomas J. Peters does, "The simple act of paying positive attention to people has a great deal to do with productivity.”

Employee productivity is measured by the quality of work. The secret lies in getting them motivated and energised about work. Burning the midnight oil does occasionally throw up results, but, a healthier work-life balance reduces stress and fatigue. With this long term outlook, team output is exponentially increased. Ultimately, productivity is about getting more done with the time you have.