By Nick D'Ambrosio
Most people are motivated by a number of things. Money, prestige, autonomy, power, success (however defined), fear of failure, recognition, helping others, etc. Knowing what motivates you and those around you (if you are a parent, knowing this can sure make life a lot easier) is very important.
Even experts in this field struggle to come to firm conclusions. This is obviously a complex subject. Having some understanding of this can help both individuals and companies as they seek to reach their respective goals. Those running a business or managing people successfully do know how to motivate their people. They are the minority. Most simply don’t know and assume that by paying people more, they will produce more. WRONG. Look at those people you work with. Do you think they are being properly motivated and performing at their highest level? Do you feel you are maximizing your potential?
I have seen many compensation plans over the past 15 years and in most cases companies that pay more will have an easier time attracting top talent. This however, is really the easy part. What is interesting and something most people who design these compensation plans fail to realize is the second part of the equation, the more important part.
This solid compensation package convinced them to join the team, but will it keep them on the team? Will it push them to be overachievers? Once people have obtained the material things that drive them to work hard in the first place, will they continue to produce at this high level having obtained these “things”? The short answer is no. Money will reach a point of diminishing return much quicker than most realize.
Few companies understand how to consistently motivate their employees, keep them motivated and help them reach their true potential. Again, look around your office, are your peers capable of more? They may be working very hard, but are they reaching their full potential? Are you?
This video does an amazing job of explaining the above. It is not only well done, it will most likely change the way you look at what really drives you and those around you. Enjoy, Nick
