Five Secrets to Increase Productivity from Satya Nadella
Since becoming the third CEO of Microsoft in 2014, Satya Nadella has made some critical changes to increase productivity throughout the organization. Unlike tech entrepreneurs that advocate slogans like, “Move fast and break things,” Nadella takes a slower, more deliberate approach. He believes meaningful productivity emerges from a culture that fosters creativity, curiosity and passion.
1. Curiosity and the Desire to Learn
Nadella embraces a growth mindset that always leaves room for new ideas. He is a voracious reader who is curious about the world. As an entrepreneur, you need to be an expert in your field, but you also want to find connections in other disciplines. Expanding your knowledge helps you discover unmet needs that will lead to your next product or service.
2. Focus on the Critical Issues
As a CEO, Nadella delegates many day-to-day decisions. This practice allows him to focus on the most critical questions. His attitude toward decision-making is deliberate and patient. He takes a deep dive into a few issues to promote well-informed choices.
3. Develop Passion
Nadella’s advice for any employee is to find a way to fall in love with what you do. Passion breeds productivity and a desire to improve. In the workplace, passion is also contagious. When your employees see leaders who are excited about projects, they will also get excited about moving things forward.
4. Create Infectious Energy
Similar to passion, energy can also infect a business culture. Nadella frequently talks about developing an energy quotient that is often more important than an employee’s IQ. Energy in the workplace tends to snowball with the successful completion of each task and project. High-energy businesses are growing organizations that exude creativity and a positive atmosphere.
5. Increase Productivity by Inspiring Others
Many entrepreneurs have reached their current level of success by self-motivated hard work. At a certain point, Nadella believes leaders need to cede some control and make space for other employees to shine. As a CEO, you do your job well when you inspire the leaders beneath you to succeed. Your original vision may have been enough to start your business, but continued growth will require the leadership, initiative, and gifts of employees you trust.
A Partner for Productive Entrepreneurs
Productivity Intelligence Institute is dedicated to helping business leaders achieve the best possible performance from themselves and their organizations. We specialize in helping entrepreneurs develop productivity strategies that work with their culture and promote forward growth. If you are ready to take your business to the next level of success, we would be thrilled to work with you. Contact us today.
