A survey done by George Mason University in the '50s, '60's, '70s, and '80s and probably in the '90s as well, asks workers, "What motivates you?" The results did not vary throughout the 40 or 50 year period of time.
Are you curious what motivates people who work for other people? Reread the title of this article and you have the answer of what to do before you know what the number one motivator is! The answer seems to be true whether you are the janitor, the UPS driver, or the boss. If you are the owner, secretary, pastor, clerk or manager, you are part of the staff where you work. If you are a stay-at-home Mom, a one person home based business or a volunteer, you are part of the staff.
Inciteful Insight!* It seems wise to give what staff wants from you, especially if it costs nothing monetarily!
* inciteful is intentionally spelled to mean an insight that urges or stirs up thought!
The number one answer, decade after decade, to what motivates people is "Appreciation of work."
The answer is probably not surprising to you because it is likely you also hold appreciation of your work in high esteem. One thing I propose is that the appreciation need not always come from "above." Appreciation of work is invaluable coming from all directions! A smart leader will teach staff to give appreciation to one another as well as look for it from the top.
With that introduction, the following are a few ideas to stimulate your thinking and encourage you to give sincere appreciation daily to every person on your staff and to encourage them to "Out Honor" each other, too!
Top Ten Ways to Show Appreciation to Staff*
*Think of staff as EVERYONE who contributes to the bottom line!
ONE: Say, "Wow!"
Allow yourself to be impressed on occasion. Note such occurrences as longevity, perseverance, thoughtfulness, imagination, determination, desire and honesty. The list goes on! When you notice something someone does, give them a, "Wow! You really impress me with your . . .!" or "Wow! How do you . . .?"
TWO: Say, "Please!"!"
My Mom said that the word, "Please!" is magic. I bet someone told you the same. If the word is magic, why not use it profusely, habitually and zealously? It is amazing how one word can so easily show appreciation.
THREE: Say, "Thank You!"!"
Speaking of one word -- my Dad taught me that if one works well, maybe two will work even better. The context might be different, but when you make the effort to use one word, the two words, "Thank You!" naturally become a way to put a bow on your gift of appreciation!
FOUR: Ask, "Did You Know . . .?"!"
Sometimes a straightforward approach helps you achieve the simplest of goals. What would happen if you walked up to someone at work and asked, "Did you know I appreciate what you just did?" When you receive a blank look back, be sure to add, "Well I do!"
FIVE: Ask, "How Did It Go?"!"
The question "How did it go?" need not be reserved for debriefing the tough tasks. The question, when given with sincerity and a listening ear is a remarkable way to show appreciation. You are showing concern and confidence.
SIX: Ask, "Could You Help Me?"!"
Sometimes the paradox works well! Asking for help can show you are confident in the person's abilities. This probably doesn't count in situations of wanting a cup of coffee. When you ask for help, be sure to be a part of the team completing the task if you want to show appreciation.
SEVEN: Ask, "What Do You Think?"!"
Everyone who contributes to the bottom line probably has at least one idea that makes a positive difference in the work you do. Asking indicates your belief and confidence that they do care and have what it takes to make a difference.
EIGHT: Step Forward and "Open the Door!"!"
Politeness, thoughtfulness and helpfulness are great appreciation communicators. Next time you notice something fall to the floor, someone approach a door, or stuff needing to be moved, respond to that gentle nudge inside yourself that says, "Pick it up!" or "Open the door!" or "Get up and give a hand."
NINE: Say, "You Make a Difference!"!"
When attention is given to the bottom line with most every move you make, it is nice to know someone realizes you are also a person! Let someone where you work know that you notice that they make a difference -- not for what they do, but for who they are.
TEN: Ask, "What's Your Plan?"!"
Bosses often fail to ask staff, "What's your plan?" Denial might be a big reason. After all, your plan might be to learn all you can and move on in a year! Regardless of longevity, each person's plan influences your workplace. Encouraging people to talk about plans might also stimulate dreams that can make your workplace and even better place to work. This works for short term daily plans as well as life goals.
©2002, Carwin Dover, Intentional Partnerships
Do you want to learn more? Carwin Dover works with people who want to make the most of their talents at work, and he works with business owners who want to keep their most talented people. http://www.mycoachswebsite.com mailto:bizcoach@mycoachswebsite.com Subscribe to the free, weekly ezine, "Communication @ Work!" via email to: mailto:subscribe@mycoachswebsite.com .
About the Author:
Carwin Dover works with owners and managers who want to create a work environment that motivates employees to be accountable and to stay for the "long haul." Carwin Dover may be contacted at http://www.mycoachswebsite.com or carwin@bresnan.net
