Success Happens Here

A message from Sandy.  Ever wonder how to identify the needs that motivate others? We are all motivated by unique desires, expectations, and interests. When it comes to motivating others, tapping into what they need and how they want to be treated is a key factor in making a connection and prompting action.

Following the principle of, “What’s in it for me?” is a valuable approach to begin satisfying others needs and spurring lasting motivation. We all want to see the value in what we are doing. Learning to treat and interact with people in the way they want to be treated offers valuable leverage to influence them in a positive manner. Consider what they would want. What is their personality like? What behavior tendencies do they have, and how do they express themselves? By uncovering this information you can connect with others in a more effective way.

Almost anyone you are dealing with should fall into one of these descriptions:

1. The need for autonomy. This is the need to have control. Individuals with this need and personal trait are often self-reliant, self-motivated, and desire to work on their own schedule. You will notice these individuals tend to be independent, creative, and nonlinear thinkers. In order to be really motivated they need to have the freedom to do things their way and on their time table. If you are working with someone like this, their motivation will be stifled if they are placed within strict boundaries.
2. The need for power. This refers to the level of importance and influence someone desires. People with this need and personality would rather take charge of a situation and can do so effectively. They are often strong in expressing their opinion and reaching goals. These people desire to be leaders and will not be motivated by a submissive and inhibited role.
3. The need for achievement. Many people are motivated by the successful completion of projects and activities. Be aware that someone with the need for achievement is likely to have high aspirations and be ambitious, just as the label implies, very achievement oriented. Help them to apply their talents and strengths in order to accomplish goals and attain success. They will be motivated by seeing progress occur.
4. The need for affiliation. We are social creatures and want to be connected to others. Particularly, for more extroverted individuals, the need for affiliation is a major factor in motivation. They derive energy from being a part of a group and interacting with others, you can expect them to be very open and expressive. Realize the importance of relationships and socializing as a source of motivation for these people.
5. The need for esteem. Many people need  validation and confirmation about the quality of their work. This provides insight that they are doing their work effectively and successfully. People who have the need for esteem can be motivated by being shown recognition and respect. These individuals want to feel that they are doing a good job and that they are appreciated for their efforts. Offering public praise and positive reinforcement can really be effective to motivate someone with this need.
6. The need for equity. Knowing we are being treated fairly can be a major factor in our emotional state. Showing people there is mutual benefit and value from everyone’s contribution can be very effective in managing dynamics within teams and groups. Making a concerted effort to treat people the same and not provide preferential treatment will serve you well in motivating anyone that believes in the virtue of equity.

Many people will fall somewhere in between these needs, by being observant and aware of your teams behaviors and tendencies you can learn what makes them tick and being to interact in a more effective way.