Motivation is the driving force behind productivity in the workplace. A motivated workforce is essential for any company looking to achieve success. Motivated employees are more likely to work harder, stay loyal, and produce high-quality work. They are also more creative, have lower rates of absenteeism, and contribute to a positive corporate culture. Understanding what motivates individuals is key to inspiring and supporting them to reach their full potential.

There are various factors that can motivate employees in the workplace. Here are 16 workplace motivators that can help drive productivity and engagement:
1. Aligning with bigger aims: Connecting individual goals to the broader mission of the organization can be a powerful motivator for employees.
2. Making history: Some employees are driven by the desire to leave a lasting legacy and make a significant impact on the lives of others.
3. Meeting deadlines: For some employees, having clear deadlines and goals can provide motivation to work towards achieving them.
4. Speech capabilities: Being able to share ideas and contribute to discussions can be a motivating factor for employees who thrive on engagement and collaboration.
5. Wanting excellence: Some employees are motivated by the desire to be the best in their field and achieve recognition for their achievements.
6. Clear expectations: Providing employees with clear expectations and goals can help them understand their role in the organization and work towards success.
7. Being recognized: Recognition for contributions can boost morale and motivate employees to continue performing at a high level.
8. Helping others: Some employees find motivation in helping others and making a positive impact on those around them.
9. Fame or power: The desire for recognition and influence can be a motivating factor for employees who aspire to leadership roles.
10. Passion fulfillment: Employees who are passionate about their work are more likely to be motivated and engaged in their roles.
11. Overcoming opposition: Some employees are motivated by competition and the desire to excel in the face of challenges.
12. Being in charge: Having control over their work environment can be a motivating factor for some employees.
13. Contradicting others: Some employees are motivated by proving others wrong and exceeding expectations.
14. Change-making: Employees who are driven to make a positive impact on their company or industry can be motivated by opportunities for innovation and improvement.
15. Feeling included: Employees who value social connections and teamwork are motivated by feeling like they belong in the workplace.
16. Developing professionally: Employees who are motivated by personal and professional growth may seek opportunities for training and skill development.
In addition to understanding what motivates employees, there are several tips for inspiring and maintaining motivation in the workplace:
- Highlight progress: Regular performance evaluations can show employees their progress and encourage them to keep working hard. - Make it hard: Setting challenging tasks can inspire employees to push themselves beyond their comfort zones. - Play on employee emotions: Leveraging emotions such as pride and fear can be effective in motivating employees to complete tasks and achieve goals.
Overall, workplace motivation is essential for creating a productive and engaged workforce. By understanding what drives employees and implementing strategies to inspire and support them, companies can create a positive and motivating work environment that leads to success.