Motivation Beyond Money

Written by Mary Welch Wednesday, October 07 2009

“Show me the money!” The phrase was popularized because of a movie, but it certainly applies to the work force. There is no question that money helps keep a work force engaged and productive. But, during times when corporate budgets are tight, employers are finding creative ways to keep their employees happy, committed, and faithful.

While everyone knows the economy is struggling, workers may not know how it is affecting their company. Communicating with employees goes a long way toward easing worries and maintaining morale.

“I don’t think it’s ever been more important for business leaders to step up and engage with their employees,” says Barbara Hughes, co-founder and senior vice president of strategy and operations for Intellectual Capital Consulting, an Atlanta firm that specializes in strategic human resources management.

Hughes points out that one of her clients, whose business has never been in “such a perfect storm,” finds that the staff is more motivated than ever before. “The CEO engages their spirits, their minds, and their hearts,” she says. “There is continuous and two-way communication about the state of the environment, the company’s performance, and where things stand.”

“He is honest without being brutal, but has a clear vision of how the company is going to come through the tough times,” Hughes says of the CEO. “His mantra is, ‘We will not quit,’ and I think this will-do attitude is carrying employees through the current climate.”