Keeping your eye on the prize

No matter how enthused you are with a project, if you're collaborating with others it can be a trial to keep the rest of the team similarly motivated. You have to dangle the prize to keep others on their toes, and remind them what their efforts are going to do for them as individuals and not for the company as a whole. A designer with an uncommunicative client should gently remind said client that as soon as the design is finished, the marketing piece can begin bringing in sales. A marketing manager can demonstrate how increased sales will ultimately lead to increased salaries. A small business owner can stress that the achievement of a prestigious award looks brilliant on a resume. No matter what environment you're in, always keep in mind that you are working for yourself.  The incentive to help a company make money lies in the probability of increased wages and opportunities for yourself. The same is true for everyone; so to amp up the creativity you need to cater to each individual team member's motives.  Sometimes, all they need is a quick reminder of what's in it for them to stimulate success for the group as a whole. Each and every person has a prize, and  it's your job to ensure that they stay focused on earning it. What are some leadership characteristics business leaders should have?