In the business world, the inner urge to act or accomplish tasks, known as motivation, manifests itself more when 'greed' is present. If I do this, maybe I'll get a raise or a bonus. I admit that this thought has crossed my mind. If I don't do this, I may lose my job. Some of the biggest motivators in our lives are the need to have enough money and to live comfortably.
Marketing and sales
Motivation for success in sales or marketing works on the same principle. Start by creating a bonus plan in which the top salesperson receives the highest bonus and those who are slightly underperforming also receive lower bonuses until a point is reached where no bonus is given. You are guaranteed to get results, but the workplace can become extremely cramped. Bonuses may also be given for completing the work in advance. Rewards such as certificates with people's names on them can also work, as the incentive does not have to be expensive, only desirable.
Motivation through performance pay
Performance-related pay is a much more important motivator. Beyond the annual increase, a portion of the profits is set aside to be distributed to employees in exact proportion to their annual performance. Increasing annual income, adding year-end bonuses and rewarding employees in this way is like asking them to "walk on water every day". Those who are able to do this do extremely well.
Gauge accordingly
There will always be employees who do not have the capacity to achieve high levels of performance every day. It is wise to assess the incentive programme and how it affects workers. If, for example, you offer $100 to anyone with perfect attendance for a month, you will probably see many more people in the office than usual.
Even the little things will surprise you with their effectiveness. Showing empathy and compassion for people is essential, but can also be very motivating. The way you communicate with people says a lot about your ethics and management style.
Some people, like me, work best when they are simply told what to do and left to do it. My employers always knew this, but they also knew that if I needed help with something, I asked for it.
I've established that kind of relationship with all my employers. They always knew that if I didn't talk to them, everything was fine and going according to plan. They always respected my decisions, but when I emailed them, it was time to give me a hand. But then again, I'm the kind of person who usually goes way beyond what's expected of them. I guess that's why I always got bonuses!