Essential Skill I

Being a Motivational Manager

“Motivation is the art of getting people to do what you want them to do because they want to do it.”

—Dwight D. Eisenhower, U.S. general and president (1890–1969)

Some managers learn the hard way that they cannot motivate others if they themselves are not motivated. As a manager, you set the tone for the workplace. Your attitude permeates your work group. If you are enthusiastic, others will be as well.

If you are energetic, enthusiastic, positive, and assertive, your employees will pick up your style. If you practice self-motivation, it will be that much easier to motivate your employees.

This is not all it takes, however. A motivational manager also learns how to read his or her employees. ...

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