I have a question for you for an article I’m writing: Have you ever received a bonus or other monetary reward at work, that was given in a way that made you happier at work and/or more motivated? If so, what about the reward was it that worked for you? Let me know in a comment.
In the past I’ve received a surprise bonus at the end of a big project and it was a moment of happiness and motivation. “Hey, these people appreciate the work we did!” But when the next three projects finished up and no such bonus appeared, it was demoralizing in that the Board appeared to have lost interest or appreciation for the years of work that went into the projects.
On a similar note, small unexpected Thank you’s of gift cards to coffee shops or just special verbal recognition at a team meeting goes a long way towards motivation to continue dedicated work on a project. Team celebrations at milestones — cake and a quick break — may not seem meaningful when they happen regularly, but when they completely disappear over time, the company ends up feeling lifeless, without any sort of culture, and completely demoralized.