The Importance of the
SUPPLY LINE
During times of economic instability, layoffs and
re-organizations are constant. Most often all support to the front line is diminished and at times completely cut off.
Supply Knowledge
As in any battle, the “supply line” is critical to the success of the front line. In other words the front line needs supplies. If you cut off supplies and you are basically throwing up a white flag of surrender. In the corporate world, “knowledge” is the most valuable supply for the front line.
Motivation is Knowledge
Delivering knowledge does not drain a budget or one’s time. In fact, it is a simple and
cost-effective solution. This issue is dedicated to supplying you with my best kept secret on motivation.
Be Courageous!
Be Open!
Be Thirsty for Knowledge! |
Supply the Front Line with Motivation
No matter how tight budgets get, you and your front line need “supplies”, nourishment and tools to fight the economic battle.
~ Mark David
The Best Kept Secret of Motivation:
Create and Share Your Vision
Create and communicate a clear “Vision” of where you intend to lead yourself, your team and/or your clients over the next 12 months. By sharing your Vision, you create a sense of purpose, clarity, focus, meaning and above all, security. Security is critical to maximizing productivity. It strengthens everyone’s ability to work through difficult times with a “hero’s mindset.” As you create your Vision you will instantly gain a sense of control even when everything feels out of your control. It is also important to design a simple communication plan to reinforce your Vision. Come up with a variety of ways to reinforce your Vision and hold yourself accountable to achieving it. Get creative and innovative in order to motivate yourself and others.
Management Example of Creating &
Sharing Your Vision
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The following can be easily modified or simplified to work with internal or external clients, a long-term project or growth plan for your top clients.
One of my clients once gave each of his employees a 3-ring binder entitled “Our 2008 Journey” with 12 tabs clearly marking each month of the year. The binder included an opening letter describing the company’s Vision and its commitment to achieving it by year-end. It also informed the team that they would receive a short update/chapter each month that would help them review status and make needed adjustments to achieve the company Vision. Everyone felt as if they were an important part of the journey. They understood exactly where they were going and what they needed to do to get there.
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Imagine how a clear vision will create motivation within yourself, create a unified team and demonstrate your leadership abilities to your clients!
The front line is directly related to the bottom line. If you are a front line professional, be proactive and seek out needed supplies. If you are a front line manager, tap into your knowledge bank and nourish your team members with the supplies they need!
If you or your team needs “supplies” to win the battle of a challenged economy, go to:
www.bottomlinecoaching.com/productstore
For access to previous newsletters, go to: www.bottomlinecoaching.com/newsletter.html |
