Persuasion

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If you want to get something done, you can do it yourself, or you can persuade someone else to do it.

A large part of leadership is getting people to do things they would not otherwise do.

Now, our team members work for our company, and they get paid to do their jobs. So, we’re already starting on third base when it comes to getting our employees to do things. But since we want them to KEEP working for our company over the long haul, it helps to make them HAPPY about doing the things we ask them to do. Persuade them, rather than ordering them around.

• Ask, rather than tell.

• Appeal to their motivations—show them the win, or compliment their knowledge or expertise, or ask them for their help or contribution to the team effort, etc.

• Respect their efforts and their contributions.

• Praise them for tasks completed so that they will be motivated to do more.

• Don’t overload someone who already has a full schedule.

• Be authentic. Don’t try to butter them up with fake praise.

• Give people redirection when things are not the way you want them, rather than wilting criticism.

• Find a win-win aspect of the process. “This will give you experience with X projects, and I know you’re interested in doing more X in the future.” “Doing this now will save us from having a major crunch at the end of the month.” “Getting this sale for the company means a bonus for you.”

Remember that no one HAS to work for YOU. Make working with you a positive experience for them.

(Photo by Nick Fewings on Unsplash)