The Key to Motivating Your Team: Understanding What Drives Them

Imagine this scenario: Your team has been working tirelessly on a project with a tight deadline. The initial excitement has faded, and now, the pressure is mounting.

Energy levels are dropping, and it’s becoming harder to keep everyone on track.

You notice the enthusiasm that once fueled the team has dwindled, replaced by fatigue and frustration. What do you do?

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This is a situation many middle managers face. I’ve been there too, and it’s in these moments that the true test of leadership comes into play—how do you reignite that spark and get your team back on track?

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As a leader, many of my responsibilities and those of my team involved large, visible, complex projects with strict deadlines. We were also constantly juggling on-going new product development, ad hoc projects to drive add-on sales with the regular long-term projects that sustained our business.

It was my job as their leader to ensure everyone was focused, equipped and encouraged to hang in there when it started to feel overwhelming, and motivation waned.

Unfortunately, a lot of managers resort to overthinking and micromanagement.

But that’s not you!

With observation, consistent communication and trust, you can keep them on motivated – even during the most demanding projects and business seasons.

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Here are 5 strategies I’ve found to be effective in revitalizing team motivation:

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1. Get to Know Your Team Members

Understanding your team starts with knowing what drives each individual. Is it recognition, career growth, or a sense of purpose? Take time to have one-on-one conversations. Ask them about their goals, what excites them, and where they see themselves in the future.

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2. Set Clear Expectations and Goals

Clarity is motivating. When team members know exactly what is expected of them and how their work contributes to the bigger picture, they’re more likely to stay engaged. Regularly revisit these goals and adjust them as needed to keep everyone aligned.

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3. Foster a Positive Work Environment

Create a work culture where team members feel valued, heard, and respected. Encourage open communication, celebrate successes, and provide constructive feedback. A positive environment is a breeding ground for motivation.

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4. Empower Through Autonomy

Empower your team by giving them ownership of their projects. When people feel trusted to make decisions, their intrinsic motivation increases. Provide guidance but allow them the freedom to take charge.

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5. Recognize and Reward

Never underestimate the power of recognition. Celebrate small wins as well as big achievements. A simple thank you or a public acknowledgment can boost morale and reinforce positive behavior.

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Motivating your team isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. It’s about understanding what makes each individual tick and fostering an environment where they can thrive.

As you implement these strategies, you’ll find that motivation isn’t just about pushing people forward—it’s about inspiring them to want to move forward.

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Always for you,

Elissa

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