Employee motivation is a critical, but often neglected, management function in the workplace. At a recent management seminar, I had lunch with an assistant manager of a discount chain. She was commenting on her recent challenges and frustrations. She said, "We have very little opportunity to 'motivate' employees. All monetary factors-starting pay, yearly merit increases, and bonuses based on the store's profits-are controlled by upper management. At our local store, we don't have anything to work with to help us motivate employees."
1. Do you agree or disagree with her conclusion?
2. What three suggestions would you offer her?
3. Reflect on your experiences with supervisors you've had who model effective leadership/motivation. Summarize their ‘best practices.'