Motivation | The Coaching Compass

Posts Tagged ‘motivation’

What’s In It For Me?

Tuesday, November 1st, 2011

WII-FM: Your Employees Favorite Radio Station - Are You Tuned In

One of my 1^st jobs as a teenager was working as a waitress in an ice cream parlor. We actually served more than just ice cream. The menu included a whole array of soups, sandwiches and entrées. I loved the job. The people were nice and they gave us a free meal with every shift. I can still remember learning about this thing called “upselling”. The managers wanted us to talk customers into ordering more food than they initially requested. So if someone was having a tuna fish sandwich, we were supposed to suggest fries and a drink. Or if someone wanted an ice cream in a bowl, we were supposed to suggest a hot fudge sundae. At first I thought this was silly and I didn’t want people to think I was being pushy. That was of course until I realized that the higher the check, the higher my tip, the more cash in my pocket. That was the moment I first learned about WII-FM, the radio station that plays in everyone’s head. Also known as “What’s In It For Me.” Believe me, I don’t think I am any more self-oriented than the next person, but when there is a direct pay off or benefit to an employee, it can be very motivational.

As managers, we are tasked with motivating our staff and inspiring high performance. But in actuality, our people need to be self-motivated. Motivation comes from the urge to satisfy some need or desire: be it intrinsic (internally driven… like pride or knowledge) or extrinsic (external drivers like money, promotions etc ). When implementing changes or requesting new actions, our job as managers is to help make the WIIFM connection. If you can tie the action to a clear benefit to the employee, the buy in becomes much simpler. Also, it is key to note that the WIIFM should be of a positive nature if it’s going to be motivational. So, the “do it to keep from getting fired” message is not a true WIIFM. That would be motivation through coercion or threats. Steer clear of that.

So the next time you implement a change or make request, take a minute to consider the WIIFM principle. Be prepared to share the WIIFM or ask your employee if there is a WIIFM? If you can tie in a personal payoff, the process will be swifter & sweeter.

Tags: Leadership, management, Motivating Employees, motivation, What's In It For Me, WIIFM
Posted in Coaching, Leadership, Training & Teambuilding | No Comments »

Who said you can’t teach an “old dog” new tricks?

Friday, June 3rd, 2011

Dakota was 6 when I adopted him 5 months ago through a local rescue. They said he was an Australian Shepherd mix and had an awesome disposition & personality. He came to me fully housebroken and obedience trained. In addition he had a whole repertoire of snazzy dog tricks he could perform for small treats and sometimes just for fun. His favorite trick is standing up on his two hind legs and twirling around. It’s is surprising he isn’t dizzy all the time from spinning. It didn’t take long for me to realize how smart and quick this dog was. In less than 5 minutes (per trick) I was able to train him to shake hands, climb up a step ladder, crawl on his belly commando style, and dance the Cha- Cha (although some may say he looks like he’s playing volleyball!). I was excited that contrary to the age old saying … “you can’t teach an old dog new tricks”, you actually can. Especially when you tap into the actions they naturally like to do. In Dakota’s case, his motivation comes from his desire to earn a treat ( Pup-eroni is his favorite!) and of course a kind word and snuggle.

The saying , “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks”, refers to the concept that it is difficult to make someone change the way they do something when they have been doing it the same way for a long time. This idea may have some merit, but ultimately people will need to change, flex and adapt if they are going to be successful in today’s business environment. Our motivation to “learn new tricks” will most likely come from our survival instincts to keep our jobs vs. a simple treat. But as leaders, we have the ability to impact the flow of change simply by recognizing the importance of motivation. Our ability to connect with our team and discern what motivates them can help us facilitate change with less fear, more control and increased acceptance. And if you are actually the” old dog” in the scenario; an employee with 20+ years at the same company,caught in the crossfire of a a merger or acquisition, or just getting a new boss, change may be challenging, but not impossible. Approach change with a sense of optimism an openness. You may be surprised to find that you actually like the change.

Tags: business change, change, motivation, survival
Posted in Coaching, Leadership | No Comments »

The Confidence Connection

Monday, February 14th, 2011

In my last blog entry I began sharing tips for building confidence. I initially created this list several weeks ago for a group of unemployed professionals who needed a motivational boost as they prepare for their continued job search 2011. Losing your job, whether through a layoff, restructuring or termination is a traumatic experience for anyone and is often damaging to one’s confidence. Our professional stature is so often connected to our feelings of self-esteem and confidence. In addition, the job search process alone can take a toll on self-belief. Job seekers are on the employment roller coaster of interviews, opportunities as well as competition and rejection. So it’s important for that people in career transition actively rebuild their confidence and project to their future employers the confidence talent and ability they possess. Below are 3 more tips for impacting your self-confidence.

2. Realize that you are not alone: Everyone has feelings of uncertainty from time to time. A good deal of low self-confidence is directly related to irrational beliefs we have that others around us are somehow immortal and do not suffer from the same uncertainties we do. Begin with the understanding that we all experience lapses in our self-confidence.

3. Celebrate your successes: Self Confidence is cumulative. It comes from and builds on achievements. Recognize you successes and pat yourself on the back.
Accept & acknowledge praise from others.

4. Connect with a friend or colleague: Think of someone who respects you and values you. Give them a call and offer to lend them a hand. It will be a win-win situation, they will get your help and in turn their respect and need for you will feed your ego.

Tags: confidence, Job Seekers, Lay Off, motivation, Self Confidence, unemployed
Posted in Coaching, Leadership, Uncategorized | No Comments »

From Boas & Bunnies to Management & Motivation

Wednesday, September 22nd, 2010

Do What You Love!

As a child, people always ask, what do you want to be when you grow up? My first choices were Secret Agent or Royal Mounted Policewoman. Both sounded exciting and of course riding a horse as part of a job was very appealing. Over the years my responses would change some, but one thought always remained constant. What ever I did, I always wanted my job to be fun and interesting. I am happy to report that this is still true.

I began my career working with animals and children in the area of education. I had the incredible opportunity to work at science and nature centers with a wide variety of animals ranging from spiders and snakes to skunks and squirrels. In this role I created interesting and engaging programs for children instilling both knowledge and appreciation for animals. I can still remember walking into classrooms with a 6 foot Boa Constrictor wrapped around my waist. Now that’s what I call active learning! Never a dull moment and I loved what I did.

After seven great years in that field I was ready for a change. I had always been fascinated by hotels and resorts, so I decided to explore the industry. As luck would have it, I landed a great opportunity with a Hilton Hotel, first as a management trainee and then as an HR manager. This was the start of a rich career in human resources and the catalyst that would eventually propel me into becoming a business owner, a coach and leadership development consultant.

Although my work environment and career have changed quite a bit over the years, my passion and focus remain constant. In the past, I spent my workdays teaching, developing and inspiring children – today I do similar things, but my audiences are now adults and my tools have changed from spiders and snakes to assessments and power point. Whether I am coaching a manager, working with a team or facilitating a team building adventure, I still love what I do!

So my question to you is … do you love what you’re doing? Do you get up each day excited about what lies ahead? If the answer is yes… then congratulations! You’re on the right track. If the answer is no, maybe it’s time to rethink things. Take a moment and rate the statements below on a scale of zero (not true at all) to 10 (perfectly true) .

(    ) I enjoy my career and the work I perform
(    ) My work allows me to express my unique talents and gifts
(    ) My work environment is positive and motivational
(    ) My Boss is respectful and treats me well
(    ) I have a plan for my career development
(    ) I earn what I am worth

Total: ( )

A perfect score is 60! How did you do?

If you‘re not happy with your current “work life” situation consider hiring a coach. A coach can help you gain clarity on what you want to change or improve, identify goals and create strategy for your next steps. For more information on our Coaching Services, email me at anita@thecoachingcompass.com or give me a call at 949-387-3436.

Tags: animals, Career, Coaching, development, inspiring, Leadership, motivation, training, work
Posted in Coaching | 2 Comments »

Is your Glass Half Full or Half Empty?

Wednesday, August 18th, 2010

Today I am speaking for 70 unemployed professionals on how to stay motivated during a job search. Being on a job search can be like riding a roller coaster; the ups and downs can be pretty extreme. One moment you have 2 or 3 great opportunities on the table and a week later you can feel like you’ve hit ground zero – no opportunities – nothing on the horizon. It can be very frustrating. I don’t care how positive of a person you think you are, you’re human and we’ve all been there.

To help people maintain a positive mental attitude during a job search I have created The Mindset Makeover. These are good habits to incorporate into your life whether you are unemployed or not.

The Mindset Makeover
Ten Tips for staying energized and positive during your job search

1. Begin your Day with Appreciation -The way you start your each morning sets the mood and tone for the rest of the day. So as you wake up, take a moment to reflect on what you appreciate in your life.

2. Build a Schedule – By building yourself a schedule you will be able to approach each day with purpose and balance. When you create that schedule, be sure to include not just job search time, but time for exercise, self development, family, friends and fun. The more balance you create, the better you’ll feel.

3. Take a Day Off – It is so easy to work your job search 24/7. Give yourself permission to take a day off. You will be more effective and refreshed when you do.

4. Focus on your Health – Exercise regularly and eat healthy. Besides being good for you, there are definite benefits from a mood and energy perspective. Try to schedule a minimum of 30 minutes of exercise into your day, don’t skip meals and avoid junk food.

5. Fertilize your Brain – Avoid the TV trap. Do things that keep you mind engaged and sharp. Read books & magazines, take a class, listen to music & audio CD’s and engage in stimulating conversation with others.

6. Get Out of the House – A change of scene is always a good stimulus for igniting your energy and attitude. Add some human interaction into the equation and watch you mood climb. You are on a job search, not sentence to solitary confinement!

7. Find the Freebies – They say the best things in life are free. Explore the many free things that are out there to do. Concerts in the park, beach walks, street fairs and picnics are just a few of the free and fun activities you can tap into.

8. Help Others and Volunteer – Helping people is a great way to energize you while making a difference in the lives of others. It can also open doors to new connections and possibilities for your future.

9. Silence your Inner Critic – Negative self-talk propagates fear and inhibits action. When you hear that inner voice trying to sabotage your success, stop it dead in its tracks. Awareness is the first step.

10. End your Day with Gratitude -What went well today? What are you grateful for? Create a Success Journal to help you recognize the positive actions you have taken and the successes you have achieved.

What 3 actions will you take going forward to insure maintaining a positive mental attitude?

1.____________________________________________________________________

2.____________________________________________________________________

3.____________________________________________________________________

Tags: motivation, positive mental attitude, unemployed
Posted in Coaching, Uncategorized | No Comments »

7 Secrets to Creating an Awesome Workplace!

Wednesday, April 28th, 2010

What makes some companies better to work for than others? How does one create a work environment where people are happy and motivated? Below are some simple secrets to creating a positive, productive and profitable workplace. Everyone is a winner!

Treat employees with respect and care. Your employees are your most valuable resource. Their attitude affects the business at all levels: from productivity to quality to service. Listen to their concerns and address their needs. Show appreciation when appropriate and let your staff know that they are valued. If you take care of your employees, your employees will take care of business!

Establish an environment of trust. The most effective way to accomplish this is to say what you mean and do what you say. Act with integrity and honesty. Establish core values and vision, and communicate regularly, as it provides the source for information and truth.

Build a sense of ownership. Engage and involve your employees in the business whenever possible. Communicate changes, challenges and concerns. Ask for feedback, listen fully and respond with an open mind. When people are invested in the problem solving process, they are much more committed to the solution.

Understand that motivation comes from within. Every person is driven by different wants and needs. Some motivators might include time off, family, recognition, a job well done, service or learning. The key to helping motivate your employees is to understand what motivates them as individual. Communication and coaching can be effective tools for uncovering intrinsic motivators and addressing needs.

Celebrate the successes. Recognition and acknowledgement are so important and go a long way toward creating an energized and motivational environment. Whether it’s directed toward an individual or a team; done in private or in public, don’t miss an opportunity to recognize and appreciate your team members.

Establish and communicate vision, mission, values and goals. These are the four guiding points on your corporate compass that direct the culture and unite the team. Having a shared purpose creates opportunities for camaraderie and community.

Team Building is the Secret Sauce! Just as trust and communication is critical from the leadership team, it is also essential between team members. Facilitate opportunities for employees to connect, cooperate, collaborate and communicate. The venues for teambuilding are limitless - from onsite “donuts at the door” to offsite scavenger hunts. The key ingredient is bringing people together in a “non work oriented” activity to build relationships and team synergy.

Tags: employee involvement, motivated, motivation, positive environment, productive, recognition, teambuilding, trust, workplace
Posted in Leadership | No Comments »