Your EAP Supervisor Newsletter has tips to enhance your supervisory skills for the New Year.

ADHD in the Workplace

Contrary to popular belief, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) does not just occur in children. ADHD can affect adults too. While some children seem to outgrow the disorder or learn to compensate for the symptoms, others do not. Many adults with ADHD do not realize they have the disorder. Common symptoms in adults include difficulty following directions, remembering information, concentrating, organizing tasks, or completing work within time limits.

ADHD affects workplace performance. Research indicates that adults with ADHD put in 22.1 fewer days at work per year than people without the condition—nearly a month’s worth of workdays.  The good news is that effective treatment is available. Adults with ADHD are treated with medication, psychotherapy, or a combination.  Behavior management strategies, such as ways to minimize distractions and improve organization, can also be helpful.

Creative Ways to Motivate Employees

How do you motivate your staff when you can’t afford to give them a raise? Use a different kind of currency. Contrary to popular belief, money is not the best motivator because it sends the message that nothing is worth doing unless you get paid extra. This can develop a sense of entitlement that quickly becomes a bottomless pit and does nothing to increase job satisfaction.

A 2005 study by psychologist Adam Grant of the University of Michigan suggests that a better performance booster is when workers have personal contact with beneficiaries of their work. For example, cafeteria line workers are significantly happier than those who work back in the kitchen, because line workers are able to see the happy customers. An employee’s morale is positively influenced by knowing his or her work is meaningful. Employees want to be recognized as individuals, shown appreciation, and be given opportunities to grow. This requires bosses to manage one-on-one rather than treating every employee alike.

Read more about these topics and answers to common questions supervisors have regarding employee issues and making EAP referrals in your EAP Supervisor Enhancement Newsletter for January 2023.

Deer Oaks Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is a free service to UHD benefits-eligible employees and their dependents and household members.  Services provided by the EAP are confidential.  For EAP contact information, visit Employee Assistance Program on UHD-ESO’s website.