This is the second installment in our two-part series on inspiration. Earlier this month in Finding Inspiration, we talked about it’s importance in life and at work. As we know, getting inspired can be an interesting and sometimes challenging process. Now, as promised, we’re here to talk about something as sweet as inspiration itself: how to inspire others.
As previously discussed, inspiration is important for many reasons: it can improve satisfaction, happiness, and productivity.
Fostering inspiration and inspiring others, then, is equally as important to promote satisfaction and workplace success.
For the leader who aspires to inspire, let’s get right into it.
When inspiration is needed most:
You might say inspiration is always needed. But it’s not feasible to be inspired all the time, and sometimes it is needed more than at other times. Tony Robbins, famous life and business strategist suggests identifying when your team is feeling uninspired or unhappy.
Low morale might include high turnover, low productivity, or withdrawal from work social activities.
Signs such as these can signal a leader that a deeper problem exists.
Be Genuine:
If employees are demoralized due to deeper problems or underlying issues, no amount of flowery speaking or team lunches can fix this.
When you are a leader, you need to show your team that you genuinely care about their concerns and ideas.
And as such, are willing to take actions within your power in order to address them. Not only does this build stronger bonds, it puts people in a headspace that their thoughts and opinions really do matter, which creates a mentality ripe for inspiration.
Listen:
In order to hear and be open to opportunities and growth, we must be able to listen to others.
Employee feedback is invaluable to understanding their interests and goals, and if a leader allows their team members to provide unhindered feedback, companies and by default employees, can benefit greatly. Additionally, giving the team space and support to come up with great ideas and then using, implementing, and building upon those ideas, is a great tool to show teams their input is valued and promote engagement and job satisfaction. Encourage and foster these eurekas and make a culture of inspiration!
Lead by Example:
Change cannot succeed in an organization without the support of its leaders.
If you want your team to be inspired, don’t only support them but give them a living example of it.
Be confident and creative, and promote these values. Encourage and help to build-up your coworkers and employees, and also recognize them for their input, ideas, and achievements. Inspiration can be a chain reaction: be the spark in your organization!
The task of an inspiring leader is two-fold: it isn’t enough to simply lead or be inspired, but to try at all times to demonstrate both. It’s a challenge, but a worthy one. Being genuine, truly listening (and positively responding), and leading by example is a win-win-win! The effect on individual and team productivity, creativity, and satisfaction is second to none!