Motivating a team, I feel, is about fostering an environment where individuals feel valued, engaged, and inspired to give their best effort. Some strategies I employ to motivate my team:
- Clear Communication: I ensure that goals, expectations, and feedback are communicated clearly and transparently. When team members understand their roles and how their work contributes to the bigger picture, they are more motivated to excel.
- Recognise Achievements: I believe in celebrating both individual and team achievements. Acknowledging hard work and success not only boosts morale but also encourages a culture of continuous improvement. Many of you will have seen our bell-ringing moments at APM!
- Provide Opportunities for Growth: I actively support my team members’ professional development by offering training, mentoring, and opportunities to take on new challenges. When individuals see a path for growth and advancement, they are motivated to perform at their best.
- Encourage Collaboration: Collaboration fosters a sense of belonging and collective achievement. I encourage open communication, teamwork, and knowledge sharing among team members, which leads to innovative solutions and a supportive work environment.
- Offer Autonomy and Trust: Empowering team members to make decisions and take ownership of their work builds confidence and motivation. I trust my team to deliver results and provide them with the autonomy they need to excel.
- Set Realistic Goals: Unrealistic expectations can demotivate a team. I work with my team to set challenging yet achievable goals, breaking down larger objectives into manageable tasks with clear timelines.
- Lead by Example: As a leader, I strive to embody the qualities I expect from my team—such as dedication, professionalism, and a positive attitude. Leading by example inspires trust and respect, fostering a motivated and cohesive team.
- Promote Work-Life Balance: Recognising the importance of work-life balance, although, due to the industry, we cannot WFH, I support and encourage time off to recharge, as a well-rested and balanced team is more motivated and productive in the long run.
By implementing these strategies, I aim to create a motivated, engaged, and high-performing team that consistently delivers excellent results while enjoying their work and personal growth.
What motivates you?