Discover the Power of Understanding: How Grasping Your Team's Unique Motivations Will Transform Your Leadership

Not understanding my team was one of the biggest mistakes I made as a leader.

When I realized it, that fact hit me like a punch in the gut.

Since then, Ive seen the same mistake made over and over by leaders that fail to understand their teams. Especially when it comes to motivation.

And the biggest mistake when motivating teams is thinking that they should be motivated by the same thing that motivates you.

Me? I’m motivated by career growth.

I strive for status and recognition of my accomplishments.

I’ve known this about myself. And confirmed it in every Myers-Briggs, Strengthsfinder, and DISC assessment I took.

But that didnt stop me from making this mistake 👇

Early on in my leadership career I was talking with someone on my team about their growth.

They told me that they had no desire to lead teams or become a manager some day.

I was confused and honestly a bit embarrassed.

They were convicted of what they wanted, but I just didnt understand. And I started to question…

…Am I right or are they right?

…Shouldnt everyone strive for the next level and status?

…And how could I lead them if I didnt know the right answer?

At the time, I wrongly assumed that everyone was motivated the same way as me. What I learned since, is that there is no one right answer or way to motivate people.

This realization started my education in understanding human behavior. And since then Ive become a devoted student and human behavior has become a cornerstone of how I lead.

As leaders we assume money, status, and growth drive our teams. Sure, it can for some.

But for others they’re driven by

Stability Structure Helping others Collaborating with teams Finding the harmony in life

Learning these different motivators is one of the best ways to develop a deeper understanding of your team.

And the leaders that do will be rewarded with a new level of trust, loyalty, and performance from their team.

So what about you?

What motivates you? And do you know what motivates your team?