If you are managing anyone (even your spouse or kids), you’ll love what you get when you use the very best motivator in the world. Doesn’t matter if we’re selling, managing, or training, we need the skill of motivation.  I know what you’re going to say. You can’t motivate anyone; they have to motivate themselves. But, each of us has the ability to provide an atmosphere where motivation can occur most easily. And, in this challenging market, using the skill of motivation is really, really important for all of us to master. 

 I don’t mean the kind of appreciation that’s just shown in big production and with trophies. After all, not everyone likes being in front of thousands! I mean the kind of appreciation that can be shown in a myriad of ways, from a greeting card to an email to a voice mail to………..

You’ll find, too, that appreciation usually doesn’t cost much. In fact, buying 15-20 greeting cards and keeping them ready is easy. You’ll see your agents keep those cards on their desks for years!

 Here’s a resource, too, that I use for motivational and thank you cards: Baudville. They are classy cards and have inspirational messages.

 Did Anyone Ever Tell You They Got Too Much Appreciation?

 You probably chuckled at that! I’ve never heard anyone criticize the fact someone said something nice about them or gave them a card of appreciation! Usually, we go around feeling unappreciated. Not because we really haven’t done anything noteworthy, but because no one noticed!

 Test your Appreciation Quotient

Take a minute and write down all the ways you appreciate those working with you. Now, count the number of times you applied those appreciations in the past week. Then, double it. You’ll see your production soar.

 Turnabout is Fair Play

 Management can be lonely. Here’s the good news. You’ll find when you appreciate people, they will start appreciating you.

 For much more on motivation and how to use it as a manager and how to motivate yourself, see the On Track to Success in 30 Days System for the Experienced Agent.

 Now you know. The hands down, flat out, very best motivator in the world is appreciation. Put this motivational principle to work and count your profits.

 Carla Cross, CRB, MA, is an expert in real estate management. She helps those managing people to get the very best performance from people through applying management principles and systems she created as a two-decade award winning manager, writer, and national speaker. Cross is a National Realtor Educator of the Year, and was just named one of the 50 most influential women in real estate.