The first step to increasing employee productivity under the 5 C's approach is to CARE about their interests.  Each of us has something that is of importance or interest to us, whether it is enthusiasm for a sport, or a passion for a personal mission.  This is an opportunity that many employers miss out on because they don't recognize the power that this truth holds.  If you are able to tap into this motivational fuel source appropriately, you will not only generate more productivity, but you will also increase the likelihood that the employee will have longevity, and invest more time and effort into your company.  Here are four practical ways to do this using the acronym "CARE."

Concern - show genuine interest in the things that are important to the employee, first by asking what they are.

Appreciation - validate the employees interest by showing an understanding and respect for why that is important to them.

Recognition - recognize opportunities for both you (as the employer) and the employee to engage in the passion or interest (where appropriate).

Encouragement - encourage the employee to participate as much as possible in his or her passion projects.

The second step of the 5 C's process is to connect the employee's interests to the corporate mission.  In order to do this effectively, the employer must be able to recognize relationships between the employee's motivators and interests, and the overall mission of the company.  Here's an example.

Imagine an employee of a cleaning supply company had a heart for preventing childhood hunger.  The manager of that company might do well to bring to that employee's attention that they have a contract with a network of Title One schools where students receive free or discounted lunches everyday.  This will not only demonstrate to the employee that the manager cares enough to recognize the importance to her, but also that what she is doing everyday as a staff member is in someway making a difference for something she cares deeply about.  That connection brings meaning, and meaning increases production.

After acknowledging and connecting with their passions, the next step for an employer or manager is to contribute.  This follows a principle that if you invest in your people, they will invest in you.  Returning to our example above of an employee being passionate about preventing childhood hunger, what do you think would happen to that employee's commitment to the job if management offered to sponsor a food drive on their behalf?  Better yet, what if the company offered to create a special service program where employees would be given time off to volunteer - and made the passionate employee the official coordinator?!

Contribution leads to buy-in, and buy-in leads to growth and retention.

The final two C's are very practical and work hand-in-hand with the others.  If you want to improve the productivity of your team it is essential to communicate with them.  You have to find out what they are thinking; where they are hurting; where they are happy; and where they are dissatisfied.  You only find this out when you have conversations and ask; and when you ask, do so earnestly and often.

Additionally, it is so very important to celebrate the accomplishments of your employees.  In fact, a good manager will look for reasons and ways to highlight excellent work.  Keep in mind, you don't have to require that the accomplishment be monumental to spark celebration; and an enormous monetary award is not always required to show appreciation.  Often, a simple thank you and acknowledgment of the investment of time, talent and treasure is enough.  

If you are serious about getting the best out of your team, and as a leader worth following you should be, then you have to become a master at genuinely navigating the 5 C's.

Written by Jason R. Shine, Founder and Coach 

REAL Smart Consulting, LLC