UVG-newsletter-JUNE18-print

10 things the smartest leaders say to
motivate their employees...
“My boss totally motivates me through fear and control,” said no employee ever.
Motivation can come in many different forms, but all towards achieving something good. If you’re a leader,
then you hold the key to unlock the power of motivation to get the effort you require from your team.
Motivating your team towards a common goal just won’t happen using negative talk and fear tactics. It all starts with
what you say and how you say it. Here are some examples of how smart leaders motivate their teams:
“I’ll follow up on that and get back to you
by Tuesday.”
As a leader it’s up to you to set a clear plan of action, within
an agreed timeframe. You set the direction and the proper
expectations, and follow through on your promises. Your
team success relies on it. Make sure you say what you mean,
because if you don’t, your staff will start to question you and
distrust will creep in.
“Come and see me anytime.”
Don’t just say it, follow through with it. If you offer an open
door policy to your staff, then let them come and see you,
talk to you, whenever they feel it necessary.
“I have good news and bad news.”
Smart leaders tell the truth. Being an open communicator
can go a long way toward motivating employees. It means
you can be trusted to tell your team the truth. We all know
honesty goes a long way!
“I want you to know how much I appreciate you.”
The most important performance motivator – is praise and
recognition. It should be given at least once a week. Praise in
front of their peers, their team members, is gold, it gives that
team member value to everyone. Your employees wont just
be more motivated, but more committed and loyal.
“Here’s what we’re dealing with, and what
this means for you.”
Your team just want to know where they stand. When
something happens that disrupts things, communicate what’s
really going on with your team, reset expectations, and keep
your team focused. You will keep motivation high in your
team by being positive, but realistic.
“Here’s what’s working well.”
Start with the positive when you need to discuss an area that
needs improvement with your team. Don’t jump right into
the hard part, it will just put your team straight into defence
mode. Acknowledge what is already working, and what you
appreciate about your team member’s strengths. Then ease
into how you’d like to see performance specifically improve
in the areas of concern
“I want you to know how the work you’re doing
aligns with our company’s objectives.”
Smart leaders let their people know regularly how they’re
hitting their goals and how their work is hitting company
goals as well. This gives their work meaning and higher
purpose – a great motivator.
“I trust your judgment.”
Smart leaders find ways to rely on others for their input.
Trust is a two-way street. By extending it as a gift to
employees, they’ll be more inclined to return the favour
and trust you back. It also brings your team closer together
to produce excellent, cohesive work.
“I’m really not sure where to go with this.
What would you do in my situation?”
Everyone needs help or input from other people sometimes.
It’s not a sign of weakness, in fact it’s the opposite. It’s
honest, and will give you more of a connection with your
team. It will also encourage your employees to speak up
when they need help.
“You are right.”
The smartest leaders are also humble by nature. Don’t let
your ego get in the way of finding a different, and better
solution to a problem.
Ultimately you wont get anywhere with your employees with negative talk. It’s all about the positives. Motivation
comes from positivity, and your business will drive forward with a positive motivated team behind it.