Companies struggle with employee motivation on a daily basis. Unmotivated and uninterested workers can decrease both productivity and profitability. Understanding the factors that motivate employees can help business leaders to cultivate a corporate culture that is engaging and enjoyable. It is important to understand that a one-size-fits-all mentality may not be appropriate, as different people are motivated by different things.
Money
Money is an important motivator for many employees. While not everybody is motivated by money, employers should consider using money to entice employees to be engaged while on the clock. Companies should be cautious, however, not to use money as their sole means of motivation. By using money as the primary motivational tool, employers can create an environment where workers are performing their job duties solely out of a desire to gain money, rather than to be a contributing member of the team.
Effective Leadership
A company that has ineffective leaders can be an emotionally draining environment for employees, and such a situation can lead to a stagnate corporate culture. Employees who are not led effectively by considerate supervisors may even begin to dread the thought of going to work every day. Effective leaders, however, can stimulate employees to set and meet goals that will provide a sense of pride, accomplishment and motivation.
Advancement Opportunities
The potential for career advancement is a powerful way to keep employees motivated. An employee who knows that he is likely to be rewarded for his high job performance with a chance to climb the corporate ladder is more likely to push himself to produce top results in his current position. Supervisors within the company need to make it a priority to recognize the efforts of these employers and create avenues of growth for these employees.
Stability
People have a general need for stability in their lives, whether it be at home or at work. Job security contributes to this sense of stability. Employers can promote of sense of stability at work by ensuring that productive employees feel that their positions are secure by showing appreciation for their efforts and by conveying to them an image of stability themselves. A study by an Ohio State University Research and Extension associate shows that job security is among the top four motivational factors of employees.
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Writer Bio
A southeastern Ohio native, Justin Johnson is a finance professional with accounting and financial planning experience in various manufacturing industries. He discovered a love for writing as student at Pensacola Christian College and after learning many lessons in the workplace, he enjoys writing business and finance pieces.