Leadership Tip

How to motivate the disgruntled

No one likes to manage unhappy employees. They can be tough to motivate and resistant to change. But giving up isn't the solution either. Motivating disgruntled individuals requires empathy, communication, and a tailored approach to their concerns. Here are three counterintuitive ways to bring your most disillusioned back into the fold:

  1. Try harder to inspire. Double down on your efforts. Keep the conversation positive. Set expectations high so they'll become more invested.
     
  2. Develop them. Don't leave the underachievers out when distributing stretch assignments. Career development should not focus only on high potentials.
     
  3. Take them to lunch. Managers spend more time with people they like, but you may make your unhappy employees feel excluded. Make an effort to spread your attention around.

The above leadership tip...
was sent in response to a question from a participant on our acclaimed 10/10 leadership development and mentoring programme. Whether you're a first time manager or an experienced leader, straightforward, practical advice on best practice is hard to find. Until now. To find out how you, your team or your organisation can benefit, please contact us.


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