Your IndustryApr 24 2014

Q&A: Peter Done – Money is not necessarily the best motivator

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Q: How can I incentivise my staff without offering a pay increase?

A: Many businesses may feel pressured to raise their employees’ pay owing to an increase of available jobs in the market. But retaining and getting the most out of your team does not necessarily have to come through remuneration.

Start by looking at working conditions. A great working environment will make people enthusiastic about coming to work. If it is calm and non-stressful, they will not feel unnecessary pressure and work can be completed to a higher standard without any major effort from the business.

For example, a kitchen or break out areas where employees can take time away from their computer or desk for a few moments to get refreshments or have a short rest will decrease the likelihood of work or stress-related illnesses. They also show that you trust your employees to take some time out if needed.

A great start to the week would be to buy breakfast on a Monday morning. It starts the week off on the right note and can ease the employee into the working week positively, as well as boosting morale. Small gestures like this give employees a boost and make them want to work harder to reap rewards, which increases productivity and helps the business.

Free exercise classes are a great way to engage employees as they encourage sociability. Incentives such as fitness classes and breakfast mornings allow employees to meet other staff members they would not normally communicate with, in a relaxed neutral environment. These activities are of very little cost to the business, but will certainly improve staff motivation.

Communicating and engaging with employees will make them feel like valued members in the workplace. If employees are connecting with managers or colleagues it will make them more relaxed and encourage them to be motivated to work well within a team. In addition, it makes employees aware of the support they have from their peers.

Finally, career development is vital, regardless of the type of job or skill required. An employee needs to be able to identify a career path. Encouraging employees to develop through training programmes and progression within the business motivates them to work to the next stage. If an employee wants to develop his skills, this should be encouraged as it will benefit the business massively. Meanwhile, promoting from within shows that progression is possible for those who are dedicated and work hard.

Peter Done is managing director of law firm Peninsula