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Addressing your team’s concerns will give you a huge advantage when it comes to motivating them. In fact, it may be motivating in and of itself. By addressing the concerns, you are cleaning the slate. The team will have a fresh perspective on their project and their careers.

It is important to note here that you do not want to leave people with additional concerns. If someone is really worried about losing their job and it is going to affect their otherwise good work performance, deal with it immediately. Make sure s/he understands the importance of his/her role in the project. Make sure s/he also understands how important this project is to the business.

The bottom line at any company is that projects make or break the business. If you are coming in to save a project, desperate measures need to be taken. No company wants failed projects. Failed projects have a much greater impact on the company than just a failure. Failed projects can crush the motivation of an entire team. Maybe even an entire company.

If a team member cannot handle the pressure, maybe they aren’t the right fit for the team. Reassign them, but don’t do so hastily. Make sure that you’ve address all their concerns first. If, after you’ve addressed their concerns, they are still sweating it… Reassign them.

The following is a list of motivational options for your micromanaged IT team:

• Offer training in new technology
• Offer a flex schedule (i.e. every other Friday off)
• Send them to a conference relevant to their skillset
• Purchase them books that further their career aspirations
• Allow them to work from home
• Give them additional paid vacation
• Get them a gift they will actually use

Remember, you are dealing with IT professionals. For the most part, IT folks are pragmatic and love the culture of Information Technology. If you aren’t familiar with the culture of IT, you shouldn’t be micromanaging them. But in case you need a refresher, start subscribing to the RSS feeds for Engadget and Gizmodo. Also, be sure to spend some time on ThinkGeek. Your employees already are!

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