An increasing number of both new and existing managerial trends say that the best way to motivate people is this, that and the other.
However, every business originates from an, often wacky, idea that proves to be lucrative, and from which a unique corporate culture develops around the entrepreneur. This culture creates values that motivate employees of the firm in question. What applied to Steve Jobs’ Apple won’t apply to Mark Zuckerberg’s Facebook.
Nonetheless we can pick out some principles that can be applied everywhere. Let’s take a look at them:
1. Demonstrate an uncompromising work ethic. In other words, lead by example.
2. Make people part of a complex problem. Everyone wants to be part of something big and see that their contribution matters.
3. Personal responsibility of the manager. You can expect others to show responsibility only when you show it yourself.
4. Honest, real-time feedback. Positive and negative.
5. Highlight the successes of employees and share responsibility for their failures.
6. Give them everything they need to carry out their tasks. Material support, training, as well as time and leadership.
7. Give them the maximum amount of responsibility they can bear. That is, set the bar high. It is in people’s nature to want to prove themselves.
8. Communication. Be open, but don’t overburden people with information, especially when this information is confidential and they shouldn’t hear it at all.
9. Be flexible, but not at the cost of limiting the team’s effectiveness. While the priority is to fulfil the team’s goals, everyone can achieve this in different ways.
10. The human approach. Show empathy, humility and a sense of humour.
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