last week I posted Sharing Your Motivation Matters and someone commented “shouldn’t my manager ask ME about my motivation?“
my response was: if they haven’t – are you willing to waste your chances of success waiting for them to ask?
If they haven’t asked… how do you open up that conversation without it feeling awkward or forced? Let’s break it down.
- Reflect on What Really Drives You. Before you can communicate it, you have to know it yourself. Ask yourself: Why do I do what I do? What makes me feel energized and excited about my work? What’s my ultimate goal? Is it financial freedom? Career growth? Recognition? Stability for your family? It could be one of these or a combination of several things. The key is to get specific.
- Schedule a 1:1 with Your Manager. This is your chance to open the door to a meaningful conversation. Don’t wait for your annual review or some crisis moment. Proactively request a time to talk about your goals, motivations, and how they align with the team’s objectives. Most managers will welcome this opportunity—it shows initiative and self-awareness.
- Frame It as a Collaboration. The conversation shouldn’t be “I want this” or “I need that.” Instead, try something like, “I’ve been reflecting on what drives me to perform at my best, and I’d love to discuss how we can align my motivations with the team’s goals. I think this could help me contribute even more effectively.” This approach shows you’re thinking about how your motivation can benefit not just yourself, but the whole team.
- Stay Open to Feedback. Remember, your manager has insights you may not have considered. Be open to their perspective on how your motivations can be channeled into achieving both personal and team success. A great manager will help you find that sweet spot between what motivates you and what the organization needs.
When you and your manager are on the same page about your motivation, you’ll not only feel more connected to your work, but you’ll also tap into that extra gear—the one that turns good salespeople into great salespeople. You’ll be working toward something that feels deeply meaningful to you, and that creates a sense of fulfillment that goes beyond just closing deals.
And guess what? That motivation becomes contagious.
When you share your “why” with your manager, it’s easier for them to motivate you in a way that resonates. Plus, it often inspires others on the team to think about and communicate their own motivations, leading to a culture of purpose-driven performance.