Kriss puts managers on track

Citation

(2000), "Kriss puts managers on track", Work Study, Vol. 49 No. 7. https://doi.org/10.1108/ws.2000.07949gaf.001

Kriss puts managers on track

Kriss puts managers on track

Keywords: Motivation, Training, Employee development

There was a time when a seemingly natural champion like Kriss Akabusi did not recognise his tremendous ability until a mentor motivated him into action. It can make you wonder what potential others may hold and whether they have untapped superstar qualities.

At the recent launch of the Institute of Management's (IM) new Centre for Management Development, Kriss talked about the most important ingredient that won him and Britain Gold, Silver and Bronze medals in both relay and hurdle events at a number of international events. Delegates discovered how energy can make a person, with the same skills as the next, far exceed in their achievements. Managers can affect the energy levels in their teams without even knowing it, creating an environment set for success or failure.

Kriss together with performance consultant Harald Oyen launched the new Centre, which provides a completely integrated range of services to give organisations, and the individuals within them, a personalised workout to develop their abilities.

Energy comes from motivation, and motivation from commitment, according to Kriss, "When I was in athletics it wasn't just a head thing or a physical thing, it was a heart thing and I want to get people to be committed to their organisation in the same way".

He is currently working with companies in building employee commitment, encouraging star talent to stick to the organisation.

"I did not know that my experience and knowledge of the power of motivation would be of any use to anyone else," said Kriss. "I now realise that it can be transferred to the workplace to transform energy levels and productivity. I would really like to see it make a difference to the lives of others."

Kriss strongly believes that others can give an individual's career the energy boost it needs. His coach, Sergeant Ian McKenzie gave him the mental power that set him on track to make sporting history. He also believes in drawing on the inspiration of role models, as Roger Black was for him, to help set sights and goals on achieving their level of excellence. "There is a buzz in constantly being challenged by goals," says Kriss.

Pippa Bourne, head of marketing for the IM's new centre, said, "Successful organisations of the future will be those which energise the knowledge, skills and ability of their employees to their full potential in order to differentiate themselves from their competitors."