As an employee focused on tasks and processes, you may feel out of sync with your core Motivational Dimensions at work. You have a specific set of tasks to perform, and they often leave little room for optimization, relating, influencing, or other motivationally supportive activities. If your role centers on taking a ticket, solving a specific problem that is well documented, and closing that ticket with a happy customer, where can you find excitement in your day-to-day work?
This misalignment can lead to frustration, decreased productivity, and even burnout. However, by understanding your Motivational Dimensions and learning to communicate effectively with your manager, you can create a more fulfilling work experience. Here’s how to better align your work with your unique Motivational Dimensions and showcase your capabilities to your managers and leaders.
Understand your Motivational Dimensions
The first step is to identify your primary Motivational Dimensions. If you haven’t already taken the MCode assessment, there’s no better time to discover what makes you tick. This will give you insight into what truly drives you and where you find the most satisfaction in your work.
Analyze your current role
Once you understand your Motivational Dimensions, examine your current role closely. Identify tasks and responsibilities that align well with your motivations and those that don’t. This analysis will help you pinpoint areas where you can make adjustments.
Communicate your motivations
Schedule a meeting with your manager to discuss your motivations and how they relate to your work. Be prepared to:
- Explain your primary Motivational Dimensions. Share insights from your report that can help your manager better understand you.
- Highlight tasks you enjoy and excel at. Use specific examples that will help your manager understand your motivations in the context of your current role.
- Suggest ways to incorporate more of these tasks into your job. Tie these suggestions to improved productivity, increased revenue, happier customers, and other outcomes that are critical to leadership.
- Discuss areas where you feel less motivated and why you feel that way.
Remember, your manager may not be familiar with the Motivation Code assessment, so be ready to explain it in simple terms.
Propose adjustments to your role
Based on your analysis and discussion, propose specific adjustments to your role that would better align with your motivations. For example:
- If you’re an Optimizer, suggest ways to streamline processes in your department.
- If you’re a Relator, propose more collaborative projects or team-building initiatives.
- If you’re a Learner, ask for opportunities to attend training sessions or conferences.
Take initiative
Don’t wait for your manager to make all the changes. Look for ways to incorporate your motivations into your current tasks. For instance:
- If you’re an Achiever, set personal performance goals for your projects.
- If you’re a Visionary, brainstorm innovative solutions to ongoing challenges.
- If you’re a Driver, volunteer to lead time-sensitive projects.
Regularly update your manager
Keep your manager informed about how these adjustments are impacting your work. Share successes, challenges, and any new insights you gain about your motivations. This ongoing communication will help your manager better understand your capabilities and how to leverage them effectively.
Be patient and flexible
Aligning your work with your Motivations is an ongoing process. Be patient with yourself and your manager as you work together to find the right balance. Stay open to feedback and be willing to adjust your approach as needed.
Seek growth opportunities
Look for opportunities within your organization that align more closely with your Motivational Dimensions. This could be through lateral moves, special projects, or even promotions. Discuss these possibilities with your manager to show your commitment to growth within the company.
Focus on results
While communicating your Motivations is essential, always tie your requests and suggestions back to how they can benefit the team and organization. Show how aligning with your Motivations leads to better results and increased productivity.
Consider mentorship
If your direct manager isn’t receptive to these discussions, consider seeking out a mentor within your organization who better understands and supports your growth based on your motivational dimensions.
By taking these steps, you can create a work environment that’s more aligned with your core motivations. This alignment leads to greater job satisfaction for you and allows your managers and leaders to see your true capabilities and utilize your strengths more effectively.
Remember, the key is open communication, initiative, and a willingness to adapt. With patience and persistence, you can create a more fulfilling work experience that benefits both you and your organization.
Ready to take the Motivation Code assessment? It takes 30 minutes, works on your stories, and gives you the insights you need to craft an empowering experience.
