"I use a number of techniques to inspire performance within a team. First, I believe it is wrong to ask my teammates to do anything I am unwilling to do myself. I continually monitor my own contributions, I own my mistakes, and I take steps to improve. If we have a superstar performer on the team, I look to match their pace. If not, I set the bar myself.
Secondly, I like to ask individuals what motivates them and what type of environment they thrive in. I use the information I gather to change up the approach I take so that there is a solid fit for everyone over time. This may include things like offering praise for a job well done, developing challenges or milestones to meet, introducing new things to learn, continual progress checks, taking a hands-off approach, protecting the team from outside influences, team building activities, time off rewards, etc.
Finally, I like to meet with my team regularly to discuss openly what is working well and what we need to improve upon. I ensure them that we have those conversations in a comfortable way in which everyone understands we are accountable for success as a team. Taking the time to discuss issues and develop a plan to avoid them in the future really helps to clear the air and inspire continual transformation."
