I think motivation is the least used
managerial technique. Many badly miscalculate the power of motivation. It is
one aspect that can create unbelievable amount of loyalty among employees. It
is a potent productivity booster. And yet, it is the least used one.
I understand with the busy schedule of
management motivation is not always in the forefront of their minds. But I
strongly believe it should be.
When I was a coach, I know I made a lot of
mistakes. But I earnestly tried to keep my teams motivated. I have taken my
team members out for coffee for a pep talk. I used notice boards to display
appreciations. I designed certificates that could be used as soft copies or
hard copies. Most of all I was honest with my appreciations. I did not
appreciate anyone just for the heck of appreciating them. I think people can
make out if you are lying about such things. All these techniques worked for
me.
I was once told to invest on eagles and
ignore the pigeons. I was asked to stop working on the pigeons that is
non-performers. I asked to spend time motivating the eagles that is top
performers. I was told that when the eagles are fed, they soar. I am sure the
eagles will soar. But I was not willing to starve the pigeons. I don’t know I could
be wrong too.
I read on the Employee Factor that some
organization, I forgot the name, that gives stuff depending upon the employee’s
hobby as part of their rewards and recognition program. So if you like wine
tasting you will be sent on wine tasting classes. This will work in small
organizations but I wonder if it will in large organizations. They probably
will have to work very hard to implement it.
In many fields, like sales, money is the
only motivating factor. But never undermine the power of money. It can be a
very big motivating factor. However, in the long run money runs out its charm.
So what motivates you?
