What is motivating us to be in business school? For many of us, it is to acquire a job that has a decent salary. So after getting a job, where does the motivation come from? Is it still money, or is it something else?

Money can often attract skilled labour but often, that is not enough to make the employees stay. For example, bonuses or raises can make employees happy for a few months yet they may not remain productive in the long run. A lot of the motivation comes from job satisfaction which ultimately derives from a happy workplace. In specific industries, such as restaurants and retail, employee satisfaction is the key to profits. A disgruntled employee may offer terrible customer service, driving away potential customers and consequently, revenue. Therefore, management needs to ensure that employees enjoy their work, and the organizational culture. To motivate employees, management can offer flexible work hours, team-building events, and company-wide recognition for excellent work. Money does have its importance, but after a specific amount, it no longer sustains employees’ engagement with the company.

Bottom line: Through other motivational means, a happy, unstressed, loyal employee is a highly productive employee.