Page 116 - Perfect Phrases for Motivating and Rewarding

The Powerhouse Overachiever

As with underachievers, you will find a few types of
overachievers. Of course, many superachievers work like
whirling dervishes, efficiently making things happen within
normal working hours without paying a toll. However, some
overachievers are motivational challenges. Some will do just
about anything to achieve and can wreak havoc on workplace
harmony. We’ll call them reckless overachievers. Others will work
beyond their own limits at the risk of sacrificing their health and
well-being, which, in the end, isn’t good for anyone. We’ll call
them workaholic overachievers.

The Motivational Mindset—Reckless Overachievers
■ While overachievers can be wonderfully productive, they may
also be so focused on the prize that they miss slowing down
for critical details. Their good efforts should be recognized,
even when they need to be reminded to check for accuracy.
■ When accuracy is essential, a system of checks and balances
should be in place that applies to everyone. Help the
overachiever understand that this is the standard process,
because mistakes can and do happen to everyone, and we’re
all too close to our own work to see certain things.
■ Overachievers may be more focused on the next job than the
one they’re in now.
■ Overachievers may be critical of others who work at a different
pace.
■ The overachiever may have maxed out at his skill level. If Sam
is an outstanding salesperson with no patience for those
learning the ropes, don’t promote him to sales supervisor. Give
strong reinforcement that he is valued as the right person for
his current position.
■ The overachiever who is told that it’s okay to slow down may
be relieved. Some people push beyond reasonable limits to
meet wrongly assumed expectations.

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