What can you do as a manager to increase the likehihood that your employees will exert a high leveleffort ?

Primarily you have to make a program. As a start you can do values formation seminar, team building, etc., and make sure that the training your employees received are supported in the work place, meaning they should be able to use those training in performing their job otherwise it will only be a waste. This is assuming that you are a good to exemplary type of manager. You may want to establish an open communication with your subordinate. Most of all never criticise them but instead tell them the mistake they have committed and the correct action that should have been taken and the impact of the said mistake. These are just example of what you can do. The last part is not that easy to do because you will be tempted to bent your frustration to the employee, but if you mastered this, you will be rewarded by loyal, honest and exemplary level of effort from them.

Good luck

Set an example for them, don't be their friend, and make sure you don't hire tards :D

Put a high level of effort into being manager

Choosing the right employees is the key. No matter what programs you build or extra incentives you provide, you need to have employees willing to give a high level of performance. Typical employees are just there to get a paycheck and will not pick up the pace no matter what.

My problem with past employer was inconsistency and incompetence from management and I left to start my own company.

Two fundamentals in managing people are setting clear expectations and providing the materials and equipment people need to do their jobs. Also, establish clear communication channels so that they know they can come to you with problems, suggestions, ideas, or opinions. Recognize achievements and efforts frequently. A nicely-timed and sincere "well done", or even a "you did your best", lets folks know you appreciate their contributions.

Doing these few things consistently will go a long way toward building a dynamic and vibrant team.