By Steve Motenko

On each of the following six questions, rate yourself on a scale of 1-5.

• Question 1:  “I’m given as much freedom as I can handle, and as my job allows, so I can take ownership of my work, and feel proud, creative, and trusted.”  (self-determination)
• Question 2:  “I feel a valued part of my organization and of my team.  I have excellent relationships at work.”  (connection)
• Question 3:  “My job responsibilities has meaning and value to me – it fits what I see as my career purpose.” (meaning)
• Question 4:  I see how my work fits into a greater whole in a way that motivates me to do my best.” (context)
• Question 5:  “My talents, skill set, and temperament are perfect for my job responsibilities.” (fit)
• Question 6:  “I have all the opportunities I need to grow personally and professionally at work.” (growth)

Each of the 6 questions above reflects one of the 6 “shovels” of motivation we discuss in our book Land On Your Feet, Not On Your Face: A Guide to Building Your Leadership Platform

Now once you take this little survey, look at your lowest 1 or 2 ratings and have the courage to have a conversation with your boss about how to raise those scores.

If you also ARE a boss, give the survey to each of your direct reports and schedule a conversation with them, one-on-one, to discuss the results.  Actions leading from these conversations can in short order produce happier, more productive employees.

Remember from our Boss Trivia Factoid of the Week that employees who have positive attitudes – and they get it from the six shovels –  evoke half again as much customer loyalty and produce almost half again as much, as the average workplace Eeyore.