42 - How to Build and Sustain High Morale in Your Construction Company

"Morale is a state of mind. It is that intangible force which will move a whole group of men to give their last ounce to achieve something, without counting the cost to themselves; that makes them feel they are part of something greater than themselves." Defeat into Victory, Battling Japan in Burma and India, 1942-1945 Field-Marshall Viscount Bill Slim  In today's episode, I explore the topic of morale: What it is, the three foundations of morale, and how to build and sustain morale in your organization. I will be draw on the wisdom of Field Marshal Bill Slim from his book Defeat Into Victory, which we previously covered in Episode 38. Highlights Include:  The definition of morale  The power of morale to move a group of people  How high morale is dynamic, and why it must be cultivated and maintained  Understanding the connection between human nature and morale Cheerful generosity: the hallmarks of high morale   3 Foundations of Morale: Spiritual, Mental, Material  Why the foundations are vital and how to get them in your company Famous examples of spiritual foundations Why transcendent aims are vital to high morale  To ensure high morale make sure your objectives are obtainable  The link between efficiency and high morale  How leaders influence morale, for better or for worse.  How good equipment and supplies impact morale in the field  Working conditions and morale Why leadership unity leads to high morale  Training and morale: How competency impacts competence.  How small wins build morale and set the stage for future success  Face to face: How leaders build morale through personal interaction Next Steps:  Realize that you are responsible for the morale of your organization  Be clear on the spiritual foundations of your business  Get on the same page with other leaders  Visit your people and communicate with them  Ask them if there are any issues that are not being addressed.   Takeaway. Go to my website www.ericanderton.com/morale and click the button, download a PDF, taken from the book of Bill Slim's Definition of Morale. Distribute them to your team and schedule a meeting to discuss how to close "morale gaps" in your company.