Have you set yourself up for the New Year? It seems like it has only just started, but we are already more than 1% of the way through the year – we completed that around 2pm on Wednesday (wherever you are in the world!). In fact, if you live in Scotland, this 1% had passed before the majority of people had returned to work – due to the weekend and bank holidays.
So, if you have sorted your own action plan out, here’s another idea on how you can get your year off to a flying start – have you ever considered motivating your boss?
We so often think about what we are going to achieve, or how to develop and motivate our staff, but rarely our bosses.
Almost all writings on motivation are designed to give the manager techniques to motivate staff. It was assumed that motivation was a one-way street that runs from top to bottom.
The same thing used to be thought of communication, until someone discovered that it was a two-way street (although I do accept that not everyone has worked that out yet!). Current management thinking says that employees should be concerned about motivating their bosses, and should not take a passive role toward this issue.
But how do you motivate your boss? Here are some of the most effective ways:
1) Seize the initiative: Don’t wait for your boss to “give” you work. Find out what needs to be done and suggest to your boss how you could do it.
2) Generate new ideas: Be creative – think of better ways to do the work in your area – and outside of your area too, and tell your boss about it.
3) Offer your assistance: Your boss needs your support and help. Show them that you’re there to provide full support.
4) Ask your boss to delegate: Your boss might not be aware that you are ready to assume more responsibilities and take on new challenges. Ask the boss to delegate responsibilities you think you can take on.
5) Provide solutions: Don’t limit your contact with the boss to the times you bring up a problem or a request for help. Bosses need to hear solutions, not just problems.
6) Give compliments: Your boss is human – really! They need to receive compliments when they do something well, or when they help you in a positive way. Don’t worry that it might sound insincere. Compliments, done in good taste and for a good reason, are always appreciated – as long as you don’t over do it.
7) Show your commitment: It’s important for the boss to know that you care about your work, about the organisation, and about the boss. Show that you care, in words and in action. Go out of your way to provide good service and promote the company.
8) Stay positive: People who talk and act in a negative way can depress people around them, including the boss. It’s important for your own mental health and for that of others that you are positive and enthusiastic. Try saying “Thank Goodness It’s Monday” instead of the usual “Friday” reference. But it’s a matter of your general attitude, not just what you say.
What additional tips would you add to this list?
Paul
