February 2009, Inspire Employee Engagement

As the economic news grows dimmer on many fronts, and layoffs mount, it is interesting to note that in a study done by Maritz Research, a global firm that helps companies understand and motivate their employees, it was found that only 10% of employees look forward to going to work. The main reason cited for this lack of enthusiasm was poor communication on the part of leadership. Of course, in this environment, most people would be happy just to have a job. However, if organizations want the best from their people to help make it through these tough times, they must do better. In a Business Week article, Carmine Gallo discusses the Maritz research and puts forth some techniques that were shown to result in more inspired communication and better employee engagement.

• Demonstrate enthusiasm - constantly. Inspiring leaders have an abundance of passion for what they do. You cannot inspire unless you're inspired yourself. You either have passion for your message or you don't. Once you discover your passion, make sure it's apparent to everyone within your organization.
  
  
• Articulate a compelling course of action. Inspiring leaders craft and deliver a specific, consistent, and memorable vision. Goals such as "we intend to double our sales by this time next year," are not inspiring. Neither is a long, convoluted mission statement. A vision is a brief, vivid description of what the world will look like if your product or service succeeds.
  
  
• Sell the benefit. Always remember, it's not about you, it's about them. You need to ask yourself constantly throughout a presentation, meeting, pitch, or any situation where persuasion takes place, "Why should people care?"
  
  
• Tell more stories. Inspiring leaders tell memorable stories. Few business leaders appreciate the power of stories to connect with their audiences. No amount of data can replace that story. Stories connect with people on an emotional level.
  
  
• Invite participation. Inspiring leaders bring employees, customers, and colleagues into the process of building the company or service. Solicit input, listen for feedback, and actively incorporate what employees say. People want more than a paycheck. They want to know that their work is adding up to something meaningful.
  
  
• Reinforce an optimistic outlook. Inspiring leaders speak of a better future. Extraordinary leaders throughout history have been more optimistic than the average person. Speak in positive, optimistic language.
  
  
• Encourage potential. Inspiring leaders praise people and invest in them emotionally. Praise is the easiest way to connect with people. When people receive genuine praise, their doubt diminishes and their spirits soar. Encourage people and they'll walk through walls for you.
  
  No leader accomplishes a vision alone. Inspiration is critical to rally people to make the journey and to commit the time and energy required to bring a vision to fruition. To inspire and motivate people to greatness, it takes a leader willing to incorporate these techniques as part of their communication regimen.