1. Remember what is was like when you were a follower.
How did you like to be treated when you weren’t the leader? Remember that (remembering is a discipline), and then decide to treat people accordingly. This act of remembering can be a powerful motivator.
2. Take a personal interest in people.
Ask how their family is. Ask what they did on the weekend. A few questions can make a positive difference.
3. Say thanks.
Whether you are leading a paid team or volunteer team, say thanks a lot. Most employees rarely get thanked, but love it when they do. They can work for someone else you know.
4. Write personal notes of thanks.
Whether you include a specific thank you in an email you’re already sending, or write a hand-written thank you note, be sure you thank people regularly. Expressing gratitude actually makes you more grateful. And yep, this is a discipline for me. But one worthwhile.
5. Smile.
Smiling is sometimes a discipline. Even if you have to make yourself smile, it will ultimately make you feel better than when you don’t.
