If you command wisely, you will be obeyed cheerfully. That used to be how leadership was defined as.
A good leader is less concerned with who is right than what is right. Leaders exist to make sensible exceptions to general rules.
A good leader takes a little more than his/her share of the blame and a little less than his/ her share of the credit.
The difference between promising ideas and productive results is a good leader.
So What Motivates Us?
At certain times in our business lives, each of us will fall into one of the following four growth levels.Understanding these levels may lead to a better understanding of the type of motivation you may require at any given time, or may help you guide and motivate your employees more effectively.
1. Enthusiastic beginners are already excited about trying something new and don’t usually need motivation. But they do need specific instructions and direction. Be prepared to answer lots of questions to keep them on track.
2. Disillusioned learners may become frustrated as the excitement wanes and certain parts of their job prove more difficult than expected. At this part of their growth they may have little to show for their efforts. Give them lots of specific and timely feedback about their progress. Face-to face praise works the best.
3. Capable but cautious contributors are those who have done the right job once, but they don’t have the self-confidence that
comes with repeat successes.
They need clear, positive recognition for achieving goals, plus encouragement to repeat their winning performance. Set aside time to listen to their concerns and to brainstorm new ideas.
4. Self-reliant achievers can manage themselves, but they also need recognition to avoid feeling taken advantage of. Sincere thanks are in order, but other incentives may work better i.e. allow them to train others, pick their assignments or become involved in decisions that will make them more visible in the organisation.