Idea 37: The key to motivating – treat each person as an individual

Find out what motivates the individuals in your team, do not rely on generalized theories or assumptions. You need to ask questions of each individual person and listen to their answers (there is more on listening skills in Ideas 82 and 83). Enter into a dialogue with each team member. Help them to clarify what it is that motivates them and use what you find to your mutual benefit.

In each person you should engender a sense of:

• Trust.
• Autonomy.
• Initiative.
• Industry.
• Integrity.
• Security.

Take time with each individual to:

• Encourage.
• Hearten.
• Inspire.
• Support.
• Embolden.
• Stimulate.