Did you know that in the U.S. it’s estimated that only 30% of the workforce is truly engaged when at work? (That means 70% of all workers are merely “showing up”, biding their time for other opportunities, or are actively disengaged)!Not only does productivity suffer, but negative behaviors and attitudes run rampant.Are you as a leader in the position to motivate, influence and inspire engagement levels? ABSOLUTELY!
“In motivating people, you’ve got to engage their minds and their hearts. I motivate people, I hope, by example – and perhaps by excitement, by having productive ideas to make others feel involved”.
You’ve heard us speak about “magic dust” (strengths and passions); identifying what our team members are passionate about, and recognizing and utilizing their skills goes a long way towards enhancing levels of engagement and motivation.
We can learn from the U.S. Army. In their 1973 handbook, they encourage leaders to:
Allow the needs of your team to coincide with the needs of your organization
Reward good behavior (especially those that support the goals of the team/organization)
Set the example
Develop morale and esprit de corps
Allow your team to be part of the planning and problem solving process
Look out for your team
Keep them informed
Make their jobs challenging, exciting, and meaningful
Counsel people who behave in a way that is counter to the company’s goals
Find out what makes your team proud and how they feel they add value; allow them to do what they do best!
Recognizing and rewarding what they view their greatest skills to be will set the stage for motivation, results, and increased levels of engagement.
Make “motivate, influence and inspire” one of your 2013 goals!