This question and answer series of articles provides scenarios for business owners to find answers to business frustrations.
Q: Any tips on motivating an unmotivated team?
One of the truths about businesses is that they are a reflection of their owner. If your team is unmotivated, look first to your own behaviour and attitudes at work. See what they see. How would you rate your level of motivation? Where on the meter are you standing? Are you really motivated or just driven and cranky that people aren’t meeting your standards, so you feel you have to jump in and do the work yourself? What really gets and keeps you excited?
Before you motivate them, think about what you need to do to motivate yourself. Do they know why they are doing the work they are doing?
I’m sure you’ve heard the story of the three men doing exactly the same job in a field. When asked what they are doing, the first says, “I’m breaking rocks.” The second says, “I’m earning a living.” And the third says, “I’m helping to build a cathedral.” Does your team know what they are building and what role they play in that? For that matter, do you know?
Motivation is not just about being aware of the big picture. It’s also about being valued for the job they do and who they are; being respected; being listened to and knowing that they have your support and backing. Consider beginning one-on-one weekly meetings with each of your team. Use these to set out what you expect of them and what they can expect of you; address issues and above all– listen! I know. I know. You don’t have the time. Just try it for a month and see what happens.
Watch for Part Twenty-Eight of the Q & A series…coming later this week!
Until next time…
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