Library Managers: Motivating Employees & Maintaining Morale Presented by: Melissa Kizior

Definitions :  Motive – “something (as a need or desire) that causes a person to act”  Motivation – “to provide with a motive”; can be intrinsic or extrinsic; leads to morale  Morale – “the mental and emotional attitudes of an individual to the tasks at hand”; “ ‘a sense of common purpose with respect to a group’ ” (emphasis added)

Roles of Library Managers:  “Director” of staff activities  Leader, Mentor  “Provider of Hope”  Motivator  Example  Active, not passive  Team member

Traditional Motivation Theories:  Maslow’s hierarchy – five types of needs  Herzberg’s two-factor – “maintenance” vs. “motivational” factors  Vroom’s expectancy – rewards: positive vs. negative (more rewards = higher motivation)  Adam’s equity – equality in rewards  Skinner’s reinforcement – reinforcement: positive vs. negative

Why Motivate?  “Some libraries, mired in hierarchical leadership structures, closed communication systems, and restrictive policies, drain the life out of users’ curiosity and damage staff morale as well”  Higher motivation leads to better performance  Happier, more fulfilling workplace for all  Positivity radiates from staff to patrons  Where would you like to work?

Different Approaches:  Increase FUN!  Goals – clear & attainable  Incentives – intrinsic vs. extrinsic  Random acts of kindness  Monetary rewards  Merit-based pay  Rotate duties & projects  Be flexible – value personal time when scheduling  Attend professional events & join organizations  Foster working relationships

“Best” Approaches:  Earn staff respect  Communicate openly & honestly  Offer recognition & praise  Harness creativity  Celebrate accomplishments  “Walk the walk”  Ask!

Summary:  “Staff morale is always a concern for the good director” (emphasis added)  Listen to suggestions of all staff members. If managers “allow creative input and suggestions,” … “[then] staff members feel a sense of ownership and pride in where they work. This … fosters a more positive environment which boosts morale.”  Remember our “COMMON PURPOSE,” MISSION and VISION!