In the form of a simple easy to use checklist, you can score how well you are doing out of 10. Better still, ask them. It's like what they describe as a mini-360^o, where your people get the chance to give you feedback. Only here it is a lot easier and far far cheaper! But then it's how you handle the results of feedback that counts the most.

Scoring gives you focus and a better way of moving forward than some nebulous measure like 'Good' or even 'Excellent'. And that measuring is what can and will prompt you to make the effort to move up a notch or two. Your own 'motivation' will require you to have the same conditions delivered well by your boss, so there is the opportunity to give upwards feedback yourself too.

That is such a powerful thing for you to do. Feedback in this way is a high level of intimacy in a business relationship - if you take it up.

So, have fun and use this checklist to see if you are doing all you can to 'Motivate' the people in your business.

1. I have easy, regular conversations with my people /10

2. I have a natural interest in people /10

3. I say 'Thank You' and give praise regularly /10

4. I give credit where it is due /10

5. I treat everyone equally and fairly /10

6. I always keep the promises I make - or I don't make them /10

7. I delegate responsibility wherever I can, with guidance /10

8. My people know exactly what is expected of them /10

9. Challenge is a part of the way we work /10

10. I coach, support and guide my people to their success /10

Averaged out, your total score out of ten is /10. So, which one's are those that you can make steps forwards in quickly - what moves your score in the ten areas above, up two or preferably three points? Again, talk with your people - get them to help you!

And, having achieved this, you will find a few more tips to follow - the 'Advanced Level' - in a couple of weeks!