7 T’s of Motivation

Motivation is the need to act in a particular manner to achieve a defined goal. Here are seven techniques, T's, which you can apply to get the best performance from all team players:

Technique #1: Delegate effectively

By wisely assigning responsibilities, you'll get the full support of the members involved. It will ease both your mind and your workload. Often, leaders inappropriately delegate time-consuming tasks to people who don't have the time to do them. Learn to spread the work around. It reduces the stress and gets more members involved actively.

Technique #2: Assign incremental tasks

Get everyone in your organization involved, even if it is in small ways at first. When you delegate even simple tasks, you draw members into action on behalf of the organization. The more they become involved, their commitment becomes more meaningful which ultimately casts bigger successes to the organization.

Technique #3: Treat members equally

Everyone enjoys being "in the know". People want to have influence and feel as if they share power within the organization. Show that you value each person in your organization. It will translate into a more motivated membership.

Technique #4: Use praise and criticism

Inevitably, there will be times when you'll have to praise and/or criticize. Learning to do so effectively maximizes your potential as a motivator. If possible, use praises and criticisms separately. Too often, when members or officers must be criticized, leaders attempt to "soften" the blow by adding praise. It's known as the "sandwich approach" -- a thick chunk of criticism, before and after praises. Generally it doesn't work. It lessens the impact of both the criticism and the praise, and ends up leaving everyone dissatisfied.

Technique #5: Generate enthusiasm

There's no substitute for genuine enthusiasm. Real enthusiasm generates real energy, which can become an irresistible force if you focus it properly.
Interact with your members in a positive, energetic manner. Don't complain about personal or organizational issues. Believe in your organization and show some zest. Have confidence in your members. Be enthusiastic. It's contagious!

Technique #6: Promote integrity

Practicing your belief is important. It will make your personal convictions stronger and promote similar convictions in your members. People model what you do. They don't necessarily do what you say.

Technique #7: Maintain your humor

Take your work seriously, but yourself less so. You'll lead more effectively, be less stressed, and be more fun to work with if you learn to roll with your role. Organizations, by the very diversity of their members, produce amusing situations. Step back once in a while and laugh at the absurdities. You'll keep your sanity -- and your friends -- when you maintain your sense of humor.

Source: http://studentorgs.unomaha.edu/leadership_tips.htm
Student Leader: February, 1992