ccsboardroom blog

Often we think one dose of motivation will do the trick in keeping people’s spirits up! Wrong …. for most people we need constant motivation to perform. Take for example a professional sports team. Constant pep talks, regular feedback on performance and never ending focus on goals. All on these small, but effective tactics assist in driving motivation.

After a break during the festive season, many people struggle to get back in the saddle of work. It’s understandable that the freedom of holidays creates a feeling of relaxation and minimum stress. Easing people back into work mode is very much about effective leadership and management. Acknowledging that it takes a few days for people to settle in.

Here are some easy ideas to help lift the spirits and motivate people as they get back into work mode;
- Take the time to ‘walk around’ and ask your people about their holiday experience
- At the start of meetings, ask people to share with others ‘their magic holiday moment’
- Establish ’short term’ goals for the next 3 months
- Have a ‘welcome back’ get together
- Demonstrate excitement and enthusiasm when you see people for the first time in the new year
- Make it fun to be back at ‘the grind stone’

What about the people who have worked through the festive season? They will be feeling tired and perhaps frustrated that they never had ‘time out’. Motivating these hard working people is just as important. Remember to say ‘Thank you’ to your crew for holding the fort and keeping the wheels turning. Even better if you do this with everyone present.

One last thought about motivating your people …. everyone is different, so getting to understand their drivers and ‘what motivates an individual’ is probably going to give you the best results.

Remember … moods are contagious.
As a Manager and Leader, the more positive you are, the more positive your people will be!

Have fun in 2008, stay upbeat and enjoy the moment.