We have a spirited, joyful, 80lb yellow Labrador Retriever.  She is a great companion and provides hours of fun.  To channel her best energy, we read Cesar Milan’s book, “Cesar’s Way: The Natural, Everyday Guide to Understanding and Correcting Common Dog Problems.”

What does this have to do with motivating and managing a team?  Turns out we’re not as different from dogs as we like to think…

Cesar focuses on three key areas to help your dog be the best dog he/she can be: Exercise, Discipline and Affection.  How would this work with your team of humans?

Exercise

Does your team routinely practice their trade together?  Or do they focus 100% of their time accomplishing the tasks at hand?  Do you keep them cooped up in endless meetings with no agendas, or out adding value to the organization?

Your team should end their day with a strong sense of accomplishment and a ‘job well done’ feeling.  Mentally or physically tired from not just doing things right, but also doing the right thing.

Discipline

Do you have defined processes on your team?  Monthly metrics that demonstrate relevant progress towards goals?  Project reports that allow for early intervention to mitigate risks?

Following a set standard and letting your team know what is expected of them at all times allows them to focus on their work and not extraneous goals.

Affection

Do you praise in public and reprimand in private?  Do you celebrate after the successful completion of a project or race on to the next job?

Some people need to be center-stage and receive big marble trophies.  Most people just want their leader to acknowledge when they’ve done a good job.  Keep a stack of ‘thank you’ notes and use them judiciously to thank the people that give the best efforts in moving the mission of the organization forward.

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Next up:  a series on work/life balance.  (hint: it may not be a ‘50/50′ deal…)

Joe Raasch :: Aug.05.2008 :: Employee Engagement, Leadership :: No Comments »