Force multipliers, which involve doing something to improve the effectiveness of an existing resource, are a popular concept in the military. But these can be useful in the workforce as well. Consider using multipliers in these five areas when you need to boost productivity or reach more challenging goals:
- Information. This involves having complete and accurate information, which can increase the chance that you and your team will make the best possible decisions. Remember that better doesn’t necessarily mean more.
- Collaboration. Move away from top-down decision-making and sharing of information. Cross-functional teams enable deeper knowledge and a broader range of skills and insights.
- Technology. Instead of spending money on more technology, look for ways to extend the effectiveness of existing tech. This may as simple as linking smartphones to software.
- Psychology. Increase efforts to improve morale to motivate team members to stay focused on tasks and work together.
- Leadership. Managers should be willing to get in the trenches with their teams and work together on tasks. This includes modeling behaviors such as taking time off for illness and maintaining a work-life balance. At the same time, when managers ask workers to come in over the holidays, they should be willing to do so as well.
