How to Get Your Team to Care (Even When Everyone’s Burnt Out)

Being a leader right now? Let’s call it what it is: tough.Your team is burnt toast. And let’s be honest—you probably are too.

So how the heck do you motivate your people to care when they’re juggling a million demands, dealing with stress, and maybe even rolling their eyes at your latest motivational email? Let’s skip the corporate jargon and get real.

I’m a former corporate CEO who increased employee engagement by 15% in just three years. And I did it with one strategy: authenticity.

I’m not talking about a fluffy slogan or a framed poster in the breakroom. I’m talking about authentic leadership that makes your team want to care.

Here’s how to get started:

1. Use Humility as Your Secret Weapon

Bring humility into the room—on purpose. In your next meeting, share a story about a time you screwed up. (Yes, even that time you made an absolute fool of yourself.) It doesn’t have to be work-related—home fails count too.

Why does this matter? Because sharing your own vulnerabilities instantly builds trust and creates psychological safety. Your team will start opening up to each other, too. That’s authenticity in the workplace in action.

2. Cut the BS Work

Want to see your team light up? Take something off their plate that’s been draining them. That endless spreadsheet HR sent down? The 58-page PowerPoint that no one reads? Axe it.

When you show your people that you care about what’s sucking up their time, they’ll care more about what actually matters. It’s like saying, “I see you. I get you.” That’s the fastest route to loyalty.

3. Give Weekly Unscripted Updates

Forget the fancy email or polished corporate memo. Pick up your phone (or your laptop webcam) and record a quick Friday recap:

• What’s on your mind?

• What’s one thing you’re proud of?

• What’s a quick lesson from the week?

eep it messy. Keep it real. This is where your authentic self at work shines. Your team doesn’t want a corporate robot—they want a human they can trust.

Leading With Authenticity: It’s About Doing, Not Being

At the end of the day, authentic leadership isn’t about putting on a show. It’s about taking action—real, messy, human action.

So, here’s your challenge:Tomorrow, try one of these three tips. Watch your team’s energy shift.Because when you show up with authenticity in the workplace, your people will show up for you.

And guess what? They’ll care, even if they’re a bit burnt out.

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Erin Hatzikostas is an internationally recognized leader on the impact of authenticity in the workplace. Learn more about her keynote speaking, workshops, and other authentic programs here.