by Leigh Goessl

Created on: February 23, 2009   Last Updated: April 27, 2011

One of the largest assets to a company is their employees. Companies that routinely attract and hire good employees have learned it is in their best interest to make strides to keep your employees happy and motivated. However a motivated workplace does not come without a level of effort on the employer's part.

If you, as an employer, can provide a motivating environment, chances are you'll find your employees want to continue to want to work for you and dedicate themselves to doing a good job.

When people think of motivation it is not uncommon for the first thought that comes to mind is the extrinsic benefits that can be tied to a job to increase motivation. Extrinsic benefits are those external, tangible benefits such as raises, bonuses or fringe benefits that often entail money coming out of the company's budget.

In a time where money is tight and economic conditions are uncertain chances are you are looking to cut back on spending not increase it. While you may want to give your employees raises or bonuses, it may not be feasibly possible.

If you are in a situation where you need to increase motivation you can consider focusing on more intrinsic ways to motivate. These are "bonuses" that your employees can achieve from within if you offer the right conditions because they are rooted in self-satisfaction.

• Offer autonomy

Most people are not enthralled with a work environment where someone is always looking over their shoulder. Instead of micromanaging tasks, try increasing independence and give your employees a chance to shine on their own. By allowing your employees a degree of responsibility and decision making authority this can inspire and bring out the best in people. It also raises levels of productivity because employees are frequently eager to stretch their wings when given the opportunity. Providing an environment of and nurturing feelings of autonomy often has a direct impact on the level of staff motivation.

• Compliments

Offering compliments and giving your staff members acclaim where due is important. All too often managers take for granted the tasks their employees accomplish and forget to stop and show a few words of appreciation. Giving praise, offering a thank you and complimenting a job well done goes a long way in keeping employees motivated.

• Ask for input

You can make your employees feel valued if you ask for their input. Wherever possible seek out your staff's opinions and ask for feedback. When people feel a sense of

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