Jon Gordon recently wrote a terrific blog post about 5 ways to really motivate. I found myself nodding my head and agreeing to each point he made. They all rang true.
And then I got to thinking. There’s a sixth way to really motivate your team.
Image by Steve Jurvetson
My thought focuses on and expands Jon’s point number 3 – Share The Vision.
When your company has a vision it is important that you share the vision and share it often. You need to make sure your team knows the direction of the company and where it will end up. Otherwise they’ll lose hope and start to wander.
But, as a leader, sharing the vision is only the first step in the right direction. You need to LIVE the vision.
If you’re not living out the vision, your team will notice. They’ll become disillusioned and discouraged.
They need you to step up to the plate.
“Leaders establish the vision for the future and set the strategy for getting there; they cause change. They motivate and inspire others to go in the right direction and they, along with everyone else, sacrifice to get there.”
— John Kotter
You need to model the vision for your team. Show them how it’s down.
As you model living the vision for your team, they’ll see it’s not just talk. They’ll see you mean business.
One by one, your team members will begin to step on board. Buy-in will begin to happen.
They’ll know that they’re not alone and that you’re willing to get dirty and do the tough work as well.
Your excitement and desire to see the vision fulfilled builds the motivation of those you lead.
Nothing, and I mean nothing, inspires and encourages the team like the leader joining in and taking part in the vision.
Become the leader that takes part in the battle he asks others to fight.
“Motivation is everything. You can do the work of two people, but you can’t be two people. Instead, you have to inspire the next guy down the line and get him to inspire his people.”
— Lee Iacocca
Question: How do you live out the vision you have laid out for your team? Please share your thoughts in the comment section below.
Please note: I reserve the right to delete comments that are offensive or off-topic.