Pump ‘Em Up
Q: It’s a tough economy out there and the energy in my office has hit an all-time low. What can I do as a manager to bring our numbers up when our motivation is so low?
A: Motivation and discipline, applied over time, develops power—which is your ability or capacity to perform or act effectively. Do that consistently over time and you’re likely to succeed. Think simple, not easy—especially when your success is dependent upon the motivation of others.
Engage. An effective business depends upon a motivated and fully engaged workforce at all levels. It’s usually the implied, if not expressed, responsibility of management to motivate the people under their charge. Steve Jobs lives this mindset. He’s one of the most effective and sought-after motivational speakers in the world and he’s simply sharing the enthusiasm and engagement he expresses in his businesses every day … and it works!
Roll up your sleeves and get to know the folks on your front line. Be sure to know something about each employee you meet—and don’t be afraid to ask questions. If you want your workforce to be engaged in your mission, engage in their lives. The power of simple personal engagement is tremendous.
Be an example. The best way to create a highly motivated and engaged workplace culture is simply to be a living example of what you want from others. It is that simple, yet this can be a difficult task, especially when you’re facing difficult challenges. Still, there is no other way: You’ve got to walk the walk.
If you want people to work harder, make sure they see you working hard. One of the worst de-motivators is when a leader presses a team to work harder, then talks about his upcoming weekend on his yacht. Greet everyone with a smile and make sure people see your positivity. When facing a challenge, do it with enthusiasm rather than trepidation.
Individualize. It’s absurd to expect lasting motivation from a “pump ’em up” session or presentation, no matter how inspirational. You may inspire, but recognize that individual motivation is, well, individual. If you want to know what will motivate any particular person, you’ve got to ask. That’s the most vital, yet often overlooked, part of the process.
This month’s expert:
Jim Bouchard • Author and motivational speaker
Jim Bouchard shares the philosophy of self-improvement he developed through his life as an entrepreneur and martial artist. As a speaker and media personality, Bouchard tours nationally to teach his Black Belt Mindset philosophy for conference and corporate events. He has published two books, Dynamic Components of Personal POWER and Think Like a Black Belt, which share his message of excellence, discipline, focus, and opportunity.
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