How to Get Your People Moving

It’s true. We’re all different. What inspires one person will leave another cold. That’s why you need to tailor your motivational strategies for each of your employees.

Cynthia Berryman-Fink and Charles B Fink’s book, The Manager’s Desk Reference, offers some useful tips to help you on your way.

Some people are driven by the need to prove themselves and do an effective job on their assignments. These are among the easiest people to motivate because they are self-motivated. Just delegate the right projects and if they’re challenging enough they will consistently produce.

Others are driven by power. They derive satisfaction from driving others. If you give them the power to lead people and direct projects they shouldn’t disappoint.

For those whose mantra is there’s no “I” in team, respond by ensuring they collaborate with other people on projects providing plenty of opportunities for the human interaction they crave.

Some people work best independently. If you give them the power to make their own decisions and set their own schedule it will help liberate them to be more productive.

Positive reinforcement drives some employees to strive higher. For these staff members, give them the praise they crave and provide plenty of feedback whenever appropriate.

Still other people need to feel safe and protected to function to the highest expectations. Do them a favor and make them feel rewarded. By ensuring they have a steady income, a safe work environment and predictable work, a decent salary and benefits they will reward you with hard work and loyalty.

Equality is important to everyone but some are more sensitive about it than others. The perception of equality is more important to them so try to respect their sensitivities.

By understanding what makes your employees tick you’ll play to their strengths and to your own which will help you build a stronger business.