Al Mozingo

from Al Mozingo – the Fire Manager…

As leaders we are often asked to motivate people.  We have our supervisor asking us to “motivate your subordinates.”  How many leaders really have some techniques, methods, or theories they utilize in this endeavor?  Hopefully, the below information will assist you in motivating your people.

The definition of motivation is: to incite or impel another.  Further, the definition of motivational research is: a systematic and scientific analysis of the forces influencing people so as to control the making of their decisions.  With those two definitions presented, now let us look at motivating our people.

Motivation:
to incite or impel another

Motivational Research:
a systematic and scientific analysis of the forces influencing people so as to control the making of their decisions

A leader must recognize the need to motivate people toward a common goal, objective, or action.  To do this, the leader needs to recognize the needs of his/her people and then try to meet those needs.  In addition, the leader must also use knowledge in the physiological makeup of people to assist in motivating others.  These needs that we need to consider in motivating others are: physiological needs, money, security, group association, safety, pride, and self-esteem, to name a few.

Leaders must develop shared values and goals with their subordinates.  With this first connection, a leader needs to help people develop a commitment to accomplish the organizational goals.  Therefore, the leader brings about individual or group action to help with a common purpose.

When a leader influences another into organizational goals, he attempts to match the needs of the organization and the needs of the individual.  When this occurs it’s a win-win situation for both.  If an individual believes you, as a leader, are keeping their best interests in mind, there will be increased trust.

Trust between the leader and the subordinates is needed to develop a highly effective team.  If there’s trust, cooperation and respect, then there’s increased commitment.  With that commitment, there is increased productivity and a desire to accomplish more of the organizational goals.  This will help develop a collaborative atmosphere, which is important for any organization.

Motivational Checklist

• What are the needs?
• Can you help or assist?
• Can you provide resources?
• Can you provide training?
• Can you increase self-esteem?
• Show consideration and respect.

In conclusion, you need to be on the lookout to find out what motivates an individual (subordinate).  As a leader determine what your people’s needs, wants, and desires are.  Then try to provide them.  This will help develop the trust and commitment needed, to be an effective leader.

Reference:  John W. Gardner, On Leadership, The Free Press, a Division of Macmillan, Inc.,New York,N.Y., 1990

Al Mozingo

About the Author:

Al Mozingo is a nationally recognized instructor in the leadership arena.  Mr. Mozingo is a certified instructor in Organizational Development and Leadership Development.  See Mr. Mozingo’s web site for his offerings:  www.firemanager.com  or  (619) 447-2828.