It’s NOT All About the Money

If someone is getting paid for a job, shouldn’t they want to do what you’re requesting?

I often hear from clients, “I’m paying them to do this job. Why do I need to be nice to them? Why do I need to figure out what motivates them?”

Here’s the reality: Most people, probably including yourself, could earn more elsewhere or doing something different. So why choose the work and place you did? It could be a lifestyle fit, a culture fit, or alignment with the organization’s mission and values. While money is important, it’s not the only reason we work.

This means that it is essential to find out what is motivating your team or direct reports. Money alone isn’t enough to motivate people. You need to find what they intrinsically value. How does the task further the mission of the organization they care about? How does it strengthen the team or enhance their relationships and visibility within the organization?

You have more levers than just “this is the work, do it.”

Challenge yourself to discover these levers and take the time to use them. By understanding and tapping into what’s their motivation, you can inspire your team to excel.

Read More: How To Continue to Build Your Leadership Intelligence