What keeps millions of people engaged in video games such as FIIFA or World of Warcraft?

The answer:  progress indicators and achievement markers. These simple mechanisms tap into the human desire for progress, and the same principle applies to the work done in your accountancy firm.

Teresa Amabile and Steven Kramer, authors of The Progress Principle, conducted research that shows that the most powerful motivator in the workplace isn’t money, perks or even praise; it’s the feeling of making meaningful progress.

When your team see progress in their work, they are more engaged, motivated, productive and committed to your firm.

But while daily progress boosts engagement, setbacks can have more than twice the negative impact. Unresolved challenges lead to frustration, disengagement and, ultimately, high team churn.

Great managers facilitate progress in your firm by:

• setting clear goals, ensuring the team understand the value and purpose of their work
• removing barriers by highlighting and eliminating obstacles that hamper progress
• celebrating the small wins and recognising even the minor achievements of the team
• using the progress principle checklist, to systematically track and support the daily progress of the team

It’s important to remember that managing progress isn’t just a strategy; it’s a daily responsibility. When you and your managers help the team see and feel progress in meaningful work, you create a thriving, engaged team that drives your firm forward.