As the rules of business change, managers need to keep their eyes on the fundamentals of employee motivation so they can support and reinforce the performance they need. Pay attention to these key forces:
• Acquisition. The drive to acquire money, property, and power, as well as such intangibles as social status and self-respect, is paramount to motivation, though it’s far from the only factor. Use rewards (financial and otherwise) to address acquisition needs.
• Connection. Employees want to feel like part of a team, not a cog in a machine. Emphasize teamwork; encourage employees to help each other out and share best practices; provide opportunities for employees to relax and enjoy each other’s company informally, outside of the workplace.
• Knowledge. Curiosity and the desire to improve are powerful motivators. Give your employees all the information you can on what your organization is doing, what your industry is like, and how they can learn more. Support training and development, and design jobs that encourage learning.
• Justice. Employees expect fair treatment. Be as transparent as you can in your organization: Explain procedures and processes and the reasons behind them, and practice consistency in dealing with employees so no one feels singled out for praise or blame.
—Adapted from the Driven Leaders website