Getting more from people, so you can get what you need, maybe what you want, is often a daunting task. Sure, if you are the boss, getting more from your people is a matter of hiring, firing, and ordering; unfortunately, the big, scary boss routine does not lead to and enjoyable work environment filled with happy people. Getting more from your co-workers requires a bit of finesse to maneuver the gauntlet of politics and ego that frequently hinders productivity. Despite the obstacles, getting more from people can be relatively easy. Here are three ways to get more from your employees or co-workers:

1.Praise
2.Punish
3.Reward

1. Praise

Despite the obvious need and ease, praise if often overlooked. So here it is, PRAISE PEOPLE FOR GOOD WORK and do it PUBLICLY. No need to get fancy, just a simple “thanks” or “good job” during a meeting or walking through the office. During your next presentation, let the group know that Jane Co-worker’s assistance was invaluable. This simple act of humility, as long as it is genuine, will make you look better and the recipient proud.

2. Punish

Just as it is good to praise, it is good to punish. Let people know immediately, not at the end of the day or during a yearly review, when they have done something unacceptable. There is no need to humiliate, yell, or berate the person. Such actions are not productive and only serve as emotional outlet and ego boost for perpetrator. With that in mind, keep punishment as private as possible; use a calm, cool, and collected voice to turn them into goo; and stick to the facts.

3. Reward

When a people consistently exceed the benchmark, they deserve a reward. A reward is not a raise or praise; a reward is an over-the-top show of appreciation. Give the benchmark-breaking people a huge bonus, or help them with the next project without taking any credit. Whatever it is, make sure it is big and beneficial.

Praise, punish, and reward is basic in its common sense reasoning; however, it is easily overlooked. Take some time to evaluate whether you have been praising, punishing, and rewarding appropriately. If so, great. If not, start small, keep a notebook, and make steady progress.