What Not to Do When You’re Trying to Motivate Your Team, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD

Abstract: This article explores common mistakes leaders make when trying to motivate their teams and provides research-backed, practical alternatives. It discusses how a lack of clear communication, over-reliance on rewards and recognition over intrinsic motivation, the use of carrots and sticks, excessive focus on individual performance over team collaboration, and failure to recognize steady effort can all undermine employee motivation. Instead, the article advocates for leaders to foster intrinsic motivation through empowerment, autonomy, and fulfillment of psychological needs. It recommends strategies like transparent communication, meaningful rewards focused on growth and development, supporting team cohesion, and acknowledging incremental progress. The article concludes that a supportive work culture focused on learning, empowerment, and shared success is key to driving sustainable high performance and engagement from motivated teams.