Keeping a team motivated isn’t about constant pep talks or big bonuses. For Michelle Maralit, a Certified Management Accountant (Australia), it starts with trust, recognition, and a clear sense of purpose.
“Motivation starts with trust, recognition, and a clear sense of purpose,” Michelle said in her interview with Financial Adviser PH. In her years of leadership experience, she’s learned that the best-performing teams are those that know their work matters—and feel seen for it.
People don’t just want to meet deadlines—they want to know they’re part of something bigger. “I’ve found that when people understand how their work contributes to the bigger picture, they’re more motivated to excel,” Michelle explained. This mindset shift transforms tasks from checklists into contributions that push the company forward.
She makes it a point to acknowledge contributions and create opportunities for professional growth. “People perform better when they feel valued and supported,” she emphasized. Whether it’s celebrating small wins or offering stretch assignments that challenge comfort zones, Michelle believes leaders must continuously invest in their team’s development.
But performance isn’t just about encouragement—it also needs structure. Michelle sets “challenging but realistic goals” that help her team push themselves, stay engaged, and find momentum.
For leaders trying to unlock the same level of engagement in their teams, Michelle offers one simple insight: purpose fuels performance. When team members feel connected to the mission—and know their efforts count—they’re more likely to stay productive, committed, and inspired.
In today’s hybrid, high-pressure workplaces, leaders like Michelle remind us that motivation isn’t manufactured—it’s nurtured through culture, communication, and care.
Whether you’re leading a small team or managing a fast-growing department, take it from Michelle: “Setting a clear vision, supporting your people, and making sure they feel valued—that’s what drives high performance.”
