Let's talk about employee motivation

We always talk about employee motivation, but do so without realising what it entails – an inner stimulation to create belongingness in the employees. It takes the 'I' and replaces it with a feeling of 'We'.

So what are the factors that motivate employees? To speak broadly, employees want incentive and benefits; a good working environment; recognition and awards; welfare schemes such as those of medical, hospitalisation, maternity, children's education – to name just a few. But the crucial factor, on which hinges motivation, is job security.

An employee should feel secure in his job. It goes without saying that a good employee should not feel worried about his job. The environment should enable such an employee to dream for better days in his working and personal life. And for this simple reason, the supervisor or boss should never utter threats regarding his job, especially when rather counselling or disciplinary measures such as advisory notes, caution, warnings, work much better.

In order to stimulate employees to feel content in the job, we should always praise them with an open mind for good work – something which not only makes an employee want to do better, but also helps the organisation. It is important to understand the limitations of an employee as a human being. They have feelings, emotions and self-respect. A congratulatory letter on occasion such as weddings or for professional performance goes a long way in motivating them.

Job benefits too, go a long way in making employees feel secure. Contributory money, building schemes and pension schemes offered by the organisation serve as important motivational tools.  When a good performer knows there is recognition in order, they always strive to perform better.

But employee motivation goes beyond just benefits and recognition. The attitude of the senior management reflects in job satisfaction and motivation. An employee enjoys an environment where he feels that the organisation is there to assist him to face his bad days. The environment is an umbrella over the employee's head – it makes or breaks the motivation. So while there are tools and ways to increase employee motivation, the important thing to remember is that if not supported by a enabling and supporting work environment, the employee will not feel the same way for the organisation to put in his very best.

The writer is Head of HR Operations, BSRM Group, Chittagong