People often ask what is the difference between inspiration and motivation. Here is a dating analogy to help clarify it.
Imagine you're a man walking down the street and spot a woman who winks or gives you a clear sign of interest. This gesture provides you with the motivation to approach her, as you feel a direct push to act. In contrast, if you see a woman who doesn't actively signal anything but still captivates you in some way, she inspires you simply by her presence. Her effect is subtle yet powerful, encouraging you to approach her without any explicit prompt.
Now in this case see your self as that woman and the and the man as your employees.
If you're looking to motivate them you'll see from the example above that it requires some action on your part.
But if you're looking to inspire them it is something stronger that doesn't require direct push.
It would be great if you didn't have to motivate your employees all the time but they were self-sustaining always finding internal motivation or inspiration to move forward in their work.
So how do you inspire employees?
Just as the woman’s captivating presence sparked the man's interest without any direct action, your authentic energy can inspire your team. Inspiration comes from being genuinely yourself and creating a work environment that reflects your true values and passions. When you lead with authenticity, your energy becomes a beacon that naturally motivates others to follow and engage with their own internal drive.
Think moth to a flame affect - and you are the flame!
1. Cultivate a Vision
Example: Create a compelling vision for your company that resonates with your employees. For instance, if your company is focused on better ingredients, share a vision of how your work contributes to a healther planet. This vision should be communicated consistently and passionately.
Action Plan:
Develop a clear and inspiring vision statement.
Regularly communicate this vision in meetings and company updates.
Use visual aids like posters or infographics to keep the vision in sight.
2. Lead by Example
Example: To improve your team’s upselling skills, demonstrate effective techniques in your own customer interactions.
Action Plan:
Share Success Stories: Talk about your own successful upselling experiences.
Model Techniques: Show your team how you identify upselling opportunities.
Celebrate Wins: Recognize and highlight team members who excel at upselling.
3. Foster a Positive Work Environment and Empower Your Team
Example: Create a supportive atmosphere where employees feel valued and are empowered to lead projects.
Action Plan:
Gather Feedback: Use surveys to understand employee needs.
Support and Develop: Offer flexible hours, team-building, and career growth opportunities.
Empower: Delegate responsibilities and involve your team in decision-making.
4. Be Authentic
Example: Show genuine enthusiasm for your work and the company’s mission. Your authenticity can be contagious and inspire others to align with the company’s goals.
Action Plan:
Be transparent about your values and goals.
Share your personal journey and passion for the company’s mission.
Engage in open and honest communication with your team.
Visual and Practical Tools
Vision Board: Create a visual board that showcases the company’s vision, goals, and values. Place it in a common area where employees can see it regularly.
Recognition Wall: Set up a wall or digital space where you highlight employee achievements and innovative ideas. This creates a culture of appreciation and inspiration.
Leadership Workshops: Organize workshops or training sessions on leadership and personal development. This helps employees see the value in growing both personally and professionally.
This should give you clarity on how to be more inspiring. The beauty of inspiration is that it minimizes the need for constant management and oversight, freeing up your time while enhancing employee performance. Now that is what i call a winning ROI.
Remember, it's not what you do but how you do it! Style supersedes everything!
As always, I am here to help you get ridiculously loyal customers, so let's get to it!
