Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe is famously quoted as saying, “Instruction does much, but encouragement everything.” A leader needs to be the CEO of the organisation they are heading. The Chief ENCOURAGEMENT Officer. Finding the language and the style that most resonates with the person you are encouraging can make a significant difference to morale, momentum and whatever bottom line you are aiming at.Children get this don’t they? There seems to be a merit certificate for almost anything. The most helpful student, standing straight in line, being kind to other students, trying hard on sports day, having interesting news, the list goes on. The danger is, as big people we forget that noticing and championing someone for a small contribution, ultimately adds up to much larger contributions all round. That’s what encouragement does.

I have an admission to make. After I read and feel the pain of the critical communication I usually bin it and move on. On the more positive side, when a hand written note is slipped into my hand, I look forward to the courage it will put into my soul. I also keep them in a file that I have affectionately named the “Rohan is a Legend” File. It’s a bias, overwhelming, uncomplicated expression of others giving me encouragement. Whenever I need courage put IN, I review a few of the letters and pick myself up.

People want to be caught doing things right. People want to be noticed for their contribution. People appreciate being told specifically what they are doing right. People love being encouraged in front of others. People are more likely to do more of their best work when courage is put INTO them.  Handwritten notes, text messages, emails, PM’s, gifts, words, recognition ALL help put courage into your teams. Remembering the great work you are doing together serves to keep at it for longer.

Put courage IN. You need it. I need it. Our people need it. I’d love to hear how you feel when someone encourages you? Have you got your very own “__________ is a legend” file? When was the last time you looked at it? Whose legend file have you contributed to this week?

Question:

What specific ways do you give and receive encouragement in your teams? You can leave your comments here.