The SRA Symposium - College of Medicine

Papers
Mentoring and Motivating: Bring Your Staff Along
Sandra M. Nordahl, CRA
Sponsored Research Administration
San Diego State University Research Foundation
5250 Campanile Drive
San Diego, CA 92182-1934, USA
Phone: 619.594.4172
Fax: 619.582.9164
snordahl@foundation.sdsu.edu
Author’s Notes
This paper was developed from the session (same title) that was presented at the 2004 Western
Section meeting held at La Quinta, California. The style of mentoring and motivation presented
herein is used daily by the author, which has and continues to evolve. The author greatly acknowledges
the mentors that have been motivational to her throughout the life of her career: Georgia
Simpson, Arizona State University (retired), Mark Elder, North Texas State University (retired),
Lee Hanna, Arizona State University (retired), Frank DiSanto, The Ohio State University Research
Foundation, Paul Nacon, Department of Health and Human Services, David Mineo, National
Institutes of Health and Michèle Goetz, San Diego State University Research Foundation.
Abstract
More often than not, as managers and supervisors, our world becomes full of complex issues,
meetings and events that fill days endlessly. Frequently, mid-level and upper management can be
out of touch with their immediate workforce. One of the primary challenges that face managers
and supervisors is creating the time and opportunity to develop, mentor and excite staff about the
tasks involved in their workday. This paper will address taking time for one’s self and rejuvenating
for work. The ability to learn to develop a fine line between work and personal life with the hopeful
outcome being a happier, more productive employee is considered. The objective is to achieve a
balanced life, resulting in employees who enjoy their jobs. Having staff members who feel motivated
and successful is one of the primary keys to reducing turnover and developing individuals for
promotional opportunities within an organization. The ability to mentor and motivate successfully
leads to satisfied employees, who in turn are more productive in the work place. Motivated and
productive employees greatly enhance the opportunities and possibilities to achieve the organization
mission goals. The author explores ideas and suggestions that have been utilized to motivate
and mentor staff in the workforce.
Introduction
What motivates one to come to work? Is it just a paycheck? Is it the interaction that occurs between
an individual and others throughout the workday? Is it the field of work that entices people
to jump out of bed? Job satisfaction is one of the necessary keys to achieve success in mentoring
and motivating the workforce. Many organizations in the field of research administration have
limited resources to provide salary increases as a motivational incentive. The quandary becomes
how do managers and supervisors motivate and mentor employees without the benefit of additional
compensation or limited monetary resources?
208 2005 Symposium Proceedings Book