Sometimes the best ideas are really simple

I keep hearing the same question over and over again in the programs I do: " How do I motivate someone," or a slightly different spin: "How do I find out what motivates one of my employees or potential employees?"

The answer is very simple. Ask them.. When was the last time you asked your best people why they work for you or what motivates them to do a great job. You can ask the same question of potential employees. What motivates you do to a great job or why do you work besides to make money?"

One of my customers actually had engraved plaques made with words like Money, Location, Interesting Work, Work-Life Balance, Hours, Flexibility, and Learning New Stuff. She then has each applicant and employee move them around until they are in the order of importance to them.