Tell Me Where We’re Going
and I'll help you get there!
What makes people enthusiastic about work? Past pundits and management theorists have asserted that recognition is the most powerful motivator and progress is the least influential. Recent research, however, turns that notion upside down. Progress, it’s been shown, is the most powerful motivator.
As highlighted as one of the Breakthrough Ideas for 2010 in Harvard Business Review, the research shows that when people feel they are contributing to results, their drive peaks and they experience a positive emotional state. In other words, people are happy and productive. When this happens, you also create a dynamic organizational culture in which people are fully engaged with your mission.
Current models demonstrate that enthusiasm and motivation are strongest when the organization’s culture is infused with:
- Clarity with clearly defined goals (people want to know where we are going)
- Resources and support (help people clarify and achieve short-term and long-range goals)
- A culture of helpfulness (build strong teams that work together toward the clear goals)
- Celebrate progress! (recognition and compensation remain important. But are subservient to the first three and has more meaning when the first three exist in the culture)
Yes, people do respond to recognition, but in the context of contributing to real progress, its meaning multiplies. Because it’s genuine. As a leader, assess how well you are doing not just motivating people, but creating a meaningful culture. Is there an area where you can improve? Be sure you begin with clarity, empower people,help them set milestones so they can see progress, strengthen team culture, and celebrate. See what kind of cultural momentum you can get started.