A new study shows the best ways high performing companies motivate their employees. Good news! Some traditional ways of motivation are still the most successful. Take a look:
Career development – Nothing kills the motivation of talented individuals like lack of career development opportunities. Employees in the high-performing companies were increasingly pleased with the “emphasis on valuing and fostering talent, and the availability of long-term career opportunities and training.” Note the emphasis on long-term. In a business world where long-term loyalty and opportunities have become often in short supply, it’s no surprise this quality resonates.
Empowerment – High-performing organizations excel in providing “open, supportive cultures that encourage new ideas and empower staff.” They received high scores on measures such as, “Most of the time it is safe to speak up in this company.” Indeed, tolerance of respectfully and professionally expressed differences of opinion is a key element of a healthy corporate culture.
Rewards and Recognition – Employees at these high performers were “increasingly satisfied” with compensation, benefits and non-monetary recognition. The organizations were seen as generally showing appreciation for contributions when appropriate. Most important of all, if not unexpected, given the overarching importance of the individual manager-employee relationship, was the sentiment, “My supervisor values my contributions.”
Leadership – Employees in the high-performing companies were satisfied with senior leaders’ ability to “communicate down the line” to everyone, as well as to make decisions “consistent with company values.” As always, it was critical for leaders to walk the talk, not talk the walk; leaders will never go wrong leading by example.
To read the full article on forbes.com and learn more about the study, click here.
If you’re looking for creative ways to motivate your employees, contact us. We can help you get the best from your staff.
