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Catch Someone Doing Something Right

June 10, 2003

"To motivate your team, make it part of your daily practice to notice and document on the changes made by at least three people.  Use specific comments to show that you are observing their efforts and appreciate them.  For instance when you offer such motivational feedback as, 'I noticed that you were hesitant to share you opinion during the meeting, and I want to acknowledge you for offering you your expertise,' you lock in those positive steps for the future.  The more specific your comments, the more powerful the incentive to incorporate that particular behavior on a daily basis.

Focusing ion motivational feedback is essential to counterbalance the natural tendency most performers have to dwell on their shortcomings.  Putting your primary accent on what is working is critical to keeping spirits high and energized (Whiteley, 2001, p. 221).

Reference:  Whiteley, R. C. (2001).  Love the work you're with: find the job you always wanted without leaving the one you have.  New York:  Henry Holt and Company.

Have you caught someone doing something right today?

Love the Work You're With is available on loan from the Ohio State University Leadership Center.  A complete listing of all the Leadership Center's resources is available on our website http://leadershipcenter.osu.edu/

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Created: 2008-12-22, Updated: 2009-01-09