A520.4.3.RB

In the video, “The Three Things We Work For (Money Isn’t One of Them)”, Andy Mulholland explains his theory on why people are motivated beyond money.

 

·         The first motivational factor I want to discuss is, “I want interesting work".  Andy gave a very good example of how he was offered opportunities that enhanced his emotional ties to the organization.  His story hit home with me on how we have to look at personal growth challenges over money alone.  I can personally testify to this being true. Personally, I have received many great job offers, but they never really met the needs of me or my family.  While pursuing my second graduate degree, I did a research paper on the importance of job satisfaction.  The findings supported the fact that money actually did not rate in the top 5 motivational factors supporting job satisfaction.

 ·         The second motivational factor is having the ability to expand my job skills.  Having the opportunity to learn on the job is a powerful motivator.  As the saying goes, “knowledge is power and the more knowledge you have, you valuable you are to your organization.” Expanding your skills strengthens your versatility when faced with challenging tasks.  I do not think I know anyone who wants to do the same task every day for the next 20 years.  In order for an organization to build upon an employee’s skill set, both the organization and the individual must determine the skills the individual needs and then provided a way to not only train them, but an provide opportunity to expand on that growth. 

 

·         The third motivator in the video was the desire to be recognized. According to the words of Mr. Mulholland, "value me for what I can do, and how I can work.”  Overpaying someone to make them stay, won't work in the long run!”  Sometimes a simple thank you or hand shake goes along way when it comes to motivation.  You know what they say; motivated employees are more productive employees!

Additionally, 3 motivators that have a major impact on me are as follows:

Immediate Feedback…Tell me when I am doing wrong so I can improve.  I feel it is an essential part of learning and it can improve overall performance.

A flexible work schedule…personal time off and the ability to modify my schedule have more value to me than money.  This motivator is a win-win for me and my family.

 

Last, but not least, is what many of us will not admit to being a motivational factor; money.  To have the ability to purchase goods and services for yourself and your family is a motivator in itself.  People often say I love my job and I don’t do it for the money.  Well I tell them, “If that’s the case, go to work for free”.