subject: Workplace Motivation Article Pt 1 - Motivation Factors [print this page] In the course of business, people hear a lot about workplace motivation. Many view it as just another buzz word. Those who have used it understand the significant results that a workplace motivation plan can bring. This is not just another fad it is becoming the way to do business.
Think about it. It makes sense to spend the time and money on motivating the workforce. A happy, motivated workplace has a higher productivity. Employees feel valued, their opinions matter and are listened too. Improved job satisfaction improves team work, attitude, and willingness to embrace change. Those are powerful changes in a work place environment. Of course, improved motivation does not mean there will no more off days. Nor will it mean employees are going around churning out 110% productivity. But, it does have a definitive, positive effect.
So what is workplace motivation and how does it work? Incentives make up a part of the program. Things that people need like bonuses for work completed early or improved production. Treats when a large job is completed, like taking the team and their spouses out for a free meal together. A monthly drawing for free movie tickets to the person with the highest sales. Little things that do not have to cost the company a fortune but are worth the employees time to try and earn.
Benefits are another part of the program. While most of the larger companies off the basics of paid time off, health insurance and sick time there are many other benefit programs. Allowing a company to offer goods and services to the employees at a discounted rate cost the company nothing, but brings benefit to the employee. Things like gym discounts, wholesale club memberships, life insurance policies and discounts on theme park tickets. Any company, large or small, can generate these extra benefits for their employees.
Benefits and incentives make an employee want to continue working for the company. It also encourages increased weekly productivity and friendly competition. While everyone will still have the occasionally grumpy day, overall tension will be significantly less. The best part is that everyone will genuinely like working for such a outstanding company and never want to leave. That is the power of motivation.
