Motivational tools

One study discovered that the most powerful motivator was personalized, instant recognition from managers. Here are a few ideas:

- Incentive programs. Sophisticated and long-term, they work well in motivating staff.

- A word of thanks. Take time to notice a person's achievement.

- Give praise. "Praise pays." Tell people what they did right - and how important their contribution is to the whole company.

- Moments of truth. Be creative and put thought into your motivational effort. Try something that is clever, personalized, and unique.

- Special work. Work can be motivating. Inspire a salesperson by giving him an exciting, new piece of business, or a special project to develop. Ask her to join a task force or to attend a special conference that would be in the eye of higher management.

- Be a publicist. Send information about someone's accomplishments to your company newsletter, trade publications and person's hometown newspaper.