Motivation and Rewards

Concept of Motivation

Motivation refers to the psychological processes that activate, direct, and sustain goal-directed behavior. In other words, it’s the internal or external factors that drive individuals to engage in certain behaviors, sustain their efforts over time, and reach their desired outcomes.

One famous scholar who has contributed significantly to the understanding of motivation is Abraham Maslow. He proposed the hierarchy of needs theory, which suggests that human needs can be arranged in a hierarchical order. Maslow believed that individuals are motivated by fulfilling their basic physiological needs, safety needs, social needs, esteem needs, and self-actualization needs, in that order.

Maslow argued that individuals will not be motivated to pursue higher-level needs until their basic needs are met. For example, individuals will not be motivated to pursue self-actualization, such as creative expression or personal growth, until their lower-level needs for food, shelter, and safety are satisfied.

Overall, motivation is a complex concept that can be influenced by various factors, including individual characteristics, social context, and environmental factors.

Importance of Work Motivation:

Work motivation refers to the set of psychological factors that drive and influence an individual’s behavior, thoughts, and actions in the workplace. It is essential in managing employees effectively, as it impacts job satisfaction, performance, and organizational success. Work motivation is a complex and multi-dimensional concept that has been studied extensively in the field of management.

Importance of Work Motivation:

  1. Central Role in Management: Work motivation is a critical element in managing people effectively. Understanding the factors that drive employee motivation can help managers create a positive work environment, increase job satisfaction, and boost productivity.
  2. Integral to Performance: Work motivation is closely related to job performance. Motivated employees are more likely to work harder, take on more challenging tasks, and have higher levels of engagement and commitment to their work.
  3. Permeates Many Sub-fields in the Study of Management: Work motivation is a fundamental concept that has implications across many sub-fields of management, including organizational behavior, human resource management, and strategic management.
  4. Research History: The study of work motivation has a rich research history spanning several decades. Many theories and models have been developed to understand the factors that drive employee motivation, including Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, Herzberg’s Two-Factor Theory, and Self-Determination Theory.
  5. Research Future: The study of work motivation is an active area of research, with ongoing efforts to refine and expand our understanding of the concept. Advances in technology, changes in the nature of work, and shifts in workforce demographics will continue to shape the future of work motivation research.

In conclusion, work motivation is a crucial factor in managing employees effectively and driving organizational success. Understanding the factors that drive employee motivation is essential for creating a positive work environment, increasing job satisfaction, and improving job performance.

Early History of Motivation Research

The early history of motivation research can be traced back to the early 20th century with the emergence of the Scientific Management movement, which was led by Frederick Taylor. Taylor’s approach emphasized the use of scientific methods to optimize productivity and efficiency in the workplace. He believed that motivation was primarily driven by extrinsic factors such as monetary incentives and that workers were inherently lazy and needed to be closely monitored and controlled to achieve maximum productivity.

The Human Relations movement emerged in the 1930s as a response to the limitations of Taylor’s approach. Researchers like Elton Mayo argued that social and psychological factors played a crucial role in motivation and that workers were not simply motivated by financial incentives. Mayo’s research demonstrated that workers were motivated by social interactions and that a sense of belongingness and being part of a group was critical to job satisfaction and motivation.

Abraham Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs theory, introduced in 1954, identified five levels of human needs that motivate behavior, starting with physiological needs like food, water, and shelter and progressing to higher-level needs like self-actualization. Maslow’s theory proposed that individuals must first satisfy their basic needs before they can be motivated by higher-level needs.

Douglas McGregor’s Theory X and Theory Y, published in 1960, offered two contrasting views of human nature and motivation. Theory X proposed that workers were inherently lazy and needed strict supervision and control to be motivated, while Theory Y argued that workers were intrinsically motivated and could be trusted to perform well if given the right conditions.

Overall, the early history of motivation research was characterized by a shift away from a purely mechanistic approach to motivation and towards a more holistic understanding of human behavior and motivation in the workplace. These early theories and concepts continue to shape modern-day research on motivation and provide valuable insights into what motivates people to perform at their best.

Need Theory

Needs theories are a type of motivational theory that attempts to explain what drives and influences human behavior by identifying and categorizing the needs that individuals seek to satisfy. Needs theories propose that people are motivated by a range of needs that exist on a continuum, from basic physiological needs like food, water, and shelter to higher-level needs like self-actualization and self-esteem.

There are several prominent needs theories, including:

  1. Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs: This theory proposes that human needs are arranged in a hierarchical order, with physiological needs at the bottom of the hierarchy and self-actualization needs at the top. According to Maslow, individuals must satisfy lower-level needs before they can be motivated by higher-level needs.
  2. Alderfer’s ERG Theory: This theory proposes that human needs can be grouped into three categories: Existence needs, Relatedness needs, and Growth needs. According to Alderfer, individuals can be motivated by needs in any of these categories, and multiple needs can be active simultaneously.
  3. Herzberg’s Two-Factor Theory: This theory proposes that there are two types of factors that influence motivation: hygiene factors and motivators. Hygiene factors, such as salary and working conditions, are essential to prevent dissatisfaction, but do not necessarily lead to motivation. Motivators, such as recognition and opportunities for growth, are the key drivers of motivation.
  4. McClelland’s Theory of Needs: This theory proposes that individuals have three primary needs: the need for achievement, the need for affiliation, and the need for power. McClelland suggested that individuals could be motivated by one or more of these needs, and that these needs were shaped by cultural and social factors.

Overall, needs theories offer valuable insights into what motivates individuals and can be used to design effective motivational strategies in the workplace. By understanding the needs that drive behavior, organizations can create a work environment that fosters motivation, engagement, and job satisfaction.

Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs

Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs is a motivational theory that proposes that human needs are arranged in a hierarchical order, with lower-level needs needing to be satisfied before an individual can be motivated by higher-level needs. The five levels of needs in the hierarchy are:

  1. Physiological Needs: These are the most basic human needs, such as food, water, shelter, and warmth. Until these needs are met, an individual cannot be motivated by higher-level needs.
  2. Safety Needs: Once physiological needs are met, an individual’s focus shifts to safety needs, such as security, stability, and protection.
  3. Love and Belonging Need: Once safety needs are met, an individual’s focus shifts to the need for love, affection, and social belonging. This includes relationships with family, friends, and romantic partners.
  4. Esteem Needs: Once love and belonging needs are met, an individual’s focus shifts to the need for esteem, which includes both self-esteem and the esteem of others. This includes feelings of self-worth, confidence, and achievement.
  5. Self-Actualization Needs: The highest level of the hierarchy is the need for self-actualization, which refers to an individual’s desire to reach their full potential, achieve personal growth, and pursue their passions and interests.

According to Maslow’s theory, individuals must satisfy lower-level needs before they can be motivated by higher-level needs. Once a need is satisfied, it no longer serves as a motivator, and an individual’s focus shifts to the next level of needs.

Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs remains a widely recognized and influential theory in the field of psychology and is often used to explain human behavior in a range of contexts, including education, healthcare, and business management. It provides a framework for understanding the complex interplay between basic needs and higher-level aspirations and can be used to design effective motivational strategies that promote personal and professional growth.

Applying Maslow’s model to the context of work
  1. Physiological – pay, pleasant work conditions, dining facilities
  2. Safety – health and safety, job security
  3. Social – cohesive work group, friendly supervision, professional associations
  4. Esteem – social recognition, job title, high-status job, feedback from the job itself
  5. Self-actualization – challenging job, opportunities for creativity, achievement in work, advancement in the organization 

Herzberg’s two-factor theory

Herzberg’s Two-Factor Theory is a motivational theory that proposes that there are two types of factors that influence motivation: hygiene factors and motivators. Hygiene factors are essential to prevent dissatisfaction but do not necessarily lead to motivation. Motivators, on the other hand, are the key drivers of motivation. Herzberg argued that while hygiene factors are necessary for employees to be satisfied with their jobs, they do not necessarily lead to motivation or engagement. Instead, motivators are what inspire individuals to perform at their best and achieve personal and professional growth.

Here are the components of Herzberg’s Two-Factor Theory:

Hygiene FactorsMotivators
SalaryAchievement
Working conditionsRecognition
Job securityResponsibility
SupervisionAdvancement
Company policiesWork itself
Interpersonal relationsPersonal growth

The hygiene factors in Herzberg’s Two-Factor Theory refer to the basic aspects of the job that are necessary to prevent dissatisfaction. These factors are essential for employees to feel comfortable and secure in their jobs, but they do not necessarily lead to motivation or engagement. Examples of hygiene factors include salary, working conditions, job security, supervision, company policies, and interpersonal relations.

Motivators, on the other hand, refer to the factors that inspire individuals to perform at their best and achieve personal and professional growth. These factors are what drive individuals to go above and beyond their basic job requirements and pursue their passions and interests. Examples of motivators include achievement, recognition, responsibility, advancement, the work itself, and personal growth opportunities.

According to Herzberg’s theory, employers must focus on both hygiene factors and motivators to create a work environment that fosters motivation, engagement, and job satisfaction. By providing a supportive and rewarding work environment that offers opportunities for personal and professional growth, employers can inspire employees to perform at their best and achieve their full potential.

Process Theories

Process theories are a type of motivational theory that focus on the cognitive processes that influence behavior and motivation. These theories propose that individuals are motivated by their beliefs, expectations, and perceptions of the world around them. There are several prominent process theories, including:

  1. Reinforcement Theory: This theory, developed by B.F. Skinner in 1938, proposes that behavior is shaped by the consequences that follow it. According to Skinner, behavior that is reinforced is more likely to be repeated, while behavior that is punished is less likely to be repeated.
  2. Expectancy Theory: This theory, developed by Victor Vroom in 1964 and further developed by Porter and Lawler in 1968, proposes that motivation is determined by the belief that effort leads to performance, and performance leads to rewards. According to this theory, individuals will be motivated to perform well if they believe that their efforts will be rewarded.
  3. Equity Theory: This theory, developed by J. Stacy Adams in 1963 and 1965, proposes that individuals are motivated by the perception of fairness in their social relationships. According to this theory, individuals compare their inputs (efforts, contributions) and outcomes (rewards, benefits) to those of others to determine whether they are being treated fairly.
  4. Goal-setting Theory: This theory, developed by Edwin Locke in 1968 and further developed with Gary Latham in 1990, proposes that specific, challenging goals lead to higher levels of performance than vague or easy goals. According to this theory, individuals are motivated by setting and achieving challenging goals that provide a sense of accomplishment and mastery.

Overall, process theories offer valuable insights into what motivates individuals and can be used to design effective motivational strategies in the workplace. By understanding the cognitive processes that influence behavior, organizations can create a work environment that fosters motivation, engagement, and job satisfaction.

Reinforcement Theory:

Reinforcement Theory, developed by B.F. Skinner in 1938, is a process theory of motivation that proposes that behavior is shaped by the consequences that follow it. According to this theory, behavior that is reinforced is more likely to be repeated, while behavior that is punished is less likely to be repeated.

Reinforcement Theory is based on three types of consequences:

  1. Positive reinforcement: This occurs when a behavior is followed by a desirable consequence, such as praise, rewards, or recognition. Positive reinforcement increases the likelihood that the behavior will be repeated in the future.
  2. Negative reinforcement: This occurs when a behavior is followed by the removal of an unpleasant consequence, such as removing a task or responsibility. Negative reinforcement also increases the likelihood that the behavior will be repeated in the future.
  3. Punishment: This occurs when a behavior is followed by an unpleasant consequence, such as criticism, verbal reprimands, or disciplinary action. Punishment decreases the likelihood that the behavior will be repeated in the future.

According to Reinforcement Theory, individuals will be motivated to repeat behaviors that have been positively reinforced or negatively reinforced. Conversely, behaviors that have been punished are less likely to be repeated in the future.

To increase motivation using Reinforcement Theory, employers can:

  1. Use positive reinforcement to reward desirable behaviors and increase their likelihood of being repeated in the future.
  2. Use negative reinforcement to remove unpleasant consequences and increase the likelihood that desirable behaviors will be repeated.
  3. Use punishment sparingly and only for serious violations of workplace rules and norms.

Overall, Reinforcement Theory offers valuable insights into what motivates individuals and can be used to design effective motivational strategies in the workplace. By understanding the consequences that follow behavior, organizations can create a work environment that fosters motivation, engagement, and job satisfaction.

Equity Theory

Equity Theory, developed by J. Stacy Adams in 1963 and 1965, is a process theory of motivation that proposes that individuals are motivated by the perception of fairness in their social relationships. According to this theory, individuals compare their inputs (efforts, contributions) and outcomes (rewards, benefits) to those of others to determine whether they are being treated fairly.

Equity Theory is based on three key components:

  1. Input: The effort, time, and other resources that an individual contributes to their job.
  2. Outcome: The rewards and benefits that an individual receives from their job, such as salary, recognition, and opportunities for advancement.
  3. Comparison: The process of comparing one’s inputs and outcomes to those of others in the workplace.

According to Equity Theory, individuals are motivated when they perceive that their inputs and outcomes are equal to those of others in the workplace. When there is an imbalance between inputs and outcomes, individuals may experience feelings of inequity and reduced motivation.

To increase motivation using Equity Theory, employers can:

  1. Ensure that inputs and outcomes are distributed fairly among employees.
  2. Encourage open communication and feedback to address any perceived inequities.
  3. Provide opportunities for employees to participate in decision-making processes and contribute their ideas and suggestions.

Overall, Equity Theory offers valuable insights into what motivates individuals and can be used to design effective motivational strategies in the workplace. By understanding the perception of fairness in social relationships, organizations can create a work environment that fosters motivation, engagement, and job satisfaction.

Goal Setting Theory:

Goal-setting Theory, developed by Edwin Locke in 1968 and further developed with Gary Latham in 1990, is a process theory of motivation that proposes that specific, challenging goals lead to higher levels of performance than vague or easy goals. According to this theory, individuals are motivated by setting and achieving challenging goals that provide a sense of accomplishment and mastery.

Goal-setting Theory is based on three key components:

  1. Goal specificity: The degree to which a goal is clear, specific, and unambiguous.
  2. Goal difficulty: The degree to which a goal is challenging and requires effort to achieve.
  3. Goal feedback: The degree to which progress towards a goal is monitored and feedback is provided.

According to Goal-setting Theory, individuals are more likely to be motivated by goals that are specific, challenging, and provide feedback on progress. Additionally, individuals are more likely to be motivated when they are committed to their goals, receive social support, and have the necessary knowledge and skills to achieve them.

To increase motivation using Goal-setting Theory, employers can:

  1. Set clear, specific, and challenging goals that align with the organization’s mission and values.
  2. Provide feedback on progress towards goals and recognition for achievements.
  3. Encourage social support and collaboration among employees to achieve common goals.

Overall, Goal-setting Theory offers valuable insights into what motivates individuals and can be used to design effective motivational strategies in the workplace. By setting clear, specific, and challenging goals, organizations can create a work environment that fosters motivation, engagement, and job satisfaction among employees.

Context of world of work

The world of work is constantly evolving, and businesses must be able to adapt to these changes in order to remain competitive and successful. This requires a willingness to embrace change, a commitment to innovation and continuous learning, and a focus on meeting the needs of employees and customers in a rapidly changing world.

The context of the world of work is constantly changing, with several factors contributing to this change. These factors include:

  1. Change happens faster and more frequently: The pace of change in the world of work has accelerated, with new technologies, products, and services emerging at a rapid rate. This means that businesses must be agile and adaptable to keep up with the changing landscape.
  2. Consumers demand more product diversity: Consumers are increasingly demanding more choices in the products and services they purchase. This means that businesses must be able to offer a wide range of options to stay competitive.
  3. Consumers want those products faster: With the rise of e-commerce and online shopping, consumers have come to expect faster delivery times for their purchases. This puts pressure on businesses to streamline their operations and improve efficiency.
  4. Product life-cycle is shortened: Products and services have a shorter life cycle than ever before, with new innovations quickly replacing older ones. This means that businesses must be constantly innovating and introducing new products to stay ahead.
  5. Globalization: The rise of globalization has increased competition and created new markets for businesses to tap into. This means that businesses must be able to operate on a global scale and adapt to different cultures and market conditions.
  6. Increased competition: With more businesses entering the market, competition has become more intense. This means that businesses must be able to differentiate themselves and offer unique value propositions to stand out.

Overall, the world of work is constantly evolving, and businesses must be able to adapt to these changes in order to stay competitive and succeed. This requires a willingness to innovate, a focus on efficiency and productivity, and a commitment to meeting the needs of consumers in a rapidly changing landscape.

Implications for resources

The changing context of the world of work has several implications for businesses and their resources. Some of these implications include:

  1. Job tasks: Businesses are moving towards competencies and capabilities, with a greater emphasis on skills and knowledge rather than specific job tasks. This requires businesses to focus on developing the skills and capabilities of their employees to stay competitive.
  2. Career stability: The concept of career stability is changing, with businesses adopting the Flexible Firm model proposed by Atkinson in 1984. This model emphasizes flexibility and adaptability, with employees taking on a variety of roles and responsibilities over their career.
  3. External recruitment vs internal development: Businesses must decide whether to recruit externally or develop their employees internally. With a greater emphasis on skills and capabilities, businesses may choose to invest in training and development programs to build the skills of their existing workforce.
  4. Employee power/dependency: As the workforce becomes more diverse and empowered, businesses must be aware of the power dynamics between employees and employers. This requires businesses to create a culture of trust and transparency to foster strong relationships with employees.
  5. Retention strategies: With increased competition for talent, businesses must adopt distinct retention strategies to attract and retain top talent. This may include offering competitive compensation and benefits, providing opportunities for career development, and creating a positive work environment.

Overall, the changing context of the world of work requires businesses to be adaptable and flexible, with a focus on developing the skills and capabilities of their employees. By creating a culture of trust and transparency and adopting distinct retention strategies, businesses can attract and retain top talent in a rapidly changing landscape.

Rewards

Financial Rewards

Financial rewards are a type of reward that involves monetary compensation given to employees in exchange for their work performance. These rewards may include job-based pay, person-based pay, pensions, financial recognition schemes, and share schemes. Here is an overview of each:

  1. Job-based pay: This type of financial reward is based on the job that the employee performs. The pay is determined by the job description, and the employee is paid according to the position’s salary scale. It is a structured form of compensation that is often used in organizations with a formalized salary structure.
  2. Person-based pay: Person-based pay is a type of financial reward that is based on the employee’s skills, knowledge, and abilities, regardless of their job title or position. This approach rewards employees who have a higher level of competence and who contribute more to the organization.
  3. Pensions: Pensions are a form of financial reward that provides employees with a retirement benefit. Employers contribute to the employee’s pension fund, and the employee receives regular payments after retirement.
  4. Financial recognition schemes: Financial recognition schemes include bonuses, profit-sharing, and stock options. These rewards are given to employees for their contribution to the organization’s success, and they can be paid out as a lump sum or over time.
  5. Share schemes: Share schemes are a form of financial reward that provides employees with company shares. This allows them to benefit from the company’s success and growth. Share schemes can be used as a way to motivate employees to work towards the company’s success.

Overall, financial rewards are a crucial aspect of compensation and can play a significant role in motivating employees and retaining talent within an organization. Different types of financial rewards can be used depending on the organization’s structure and goals, as well as the employee’s performance and contribution.

Non-Financial Rewards

Non-financial rewards refer to incentives given to employees that are not monetary in nature. These rewards are designed to recognize and reinforce positive behaviors, increase employee satisfaction and engagement, and promote a positive workplace culture. Examples of non-financial rewards include public recognition, flexible work arrangements, professional development opportunities, additional time off, and personalized gifts or experiences. Non-financial rewards are often used in conjunction with financial rewards to create a comprehensive and effective employee recognition and reward system.

Characteristics of Non-financial Reward

Non-financial rewards refer to incentives or benefits that are not directly related to monetary compensation or financial gain. Instead, they focus on providing employees with intangible benefits that can enhance their job satisfaction, motivation, and overall well-being. Here are some key characteristics of non-financial rewards:

  1. Variety: Non-financial rewards can take various forms, including recognition, opportunities for personal and professional growth, flexible work arrangements, and a positive work environment. This variety allows organizations to tailor rewards to the unique needs and preferences of their employees.
  2. Intrinsic value: Non-financial rewards often have intrinsic value, meaning they are rewarding in and of themselves. For example, providing employees with challenging and meaningful work can be a powerful motivator, even if it does not come with a financial incentive.
  3. Subjectivity: Non-financial rewards can be subjective, meaning that their value is determined by the individual employee. For example, one employee may value recognition for their work, while another may prefer opportunities for personal and professional development.
  4. Emotional impact: Non-financial rewards can have a significant emotional impact on employees, which can lead to increased job satisfaction, engagement, and loyalty. For example, a positive work environment that fosters collaboration and mutual respect can create a sense of belonging and fulfillment for employees.

In conclusion, non-financial rewards can play a critical role in creating a positive workplace culture and enhancing employee motivation and well-being. Their variety, intrinsic value, subjectivity, and emotional impact make them an important complement to financial rewards in creating a comprehensive rewards package.

Categories of Non-Financial Rewards in the Workplace

According to Armstrong (2017), non-financial rewards are incentives given to employees that are not related to monetary compensation. These rewards can take various forms and are designed to motivate, engage, and retain employees by recognizing and reinforcing positive behaviors and achievements.

These rewards can be categorized into several categories:

  1. Recognition: Non-financial rewards in the form of recognition refer to acknowledging and appreciating an employee’s contributions or achievements. This can include verbal or written praise, public recognition, or awards.
  2. Achievement: Rewards based on achievement recognize an employee’s successful completion of a task or meeting a goal. These rewards can include a promotion, opportunities to work on challenging projects, or being given additional responsibilities.
  3. Personal Growth: Non-financial rewards that focus on personal growth are aimed at helping employees develop their skills and abilities. This can include training and development opportunities, mentoring, and coaching.
  4. Learning and Development Opportunities: These rewards offer employees opportunities to learn new skills or knowledge that can be applied to their job or career development. This can include attendance at conferences or workshops, access to online learning resources, or on-the-job training.
  5. Enhancement of Well-being: Non-financial rewards that focus on well-being aim to improve employees’ physical, emotional, or social well-being. This can include wellness programs, flexible work arrangements, or employee assistance programs.

Non-financial rewards can be either extrinsic or intrinsic. Extrinsic rewards are external rewards, such as verbal encouragement from a manager, while intrinsic rewards are internal rewards that come from the job itself, such as the content of the work or the sense of accomplishment that comes from completing a challenging project.

Overall, non-financial rewards are an important part of a comprehensive employee recognition and reward system. They help to improve employee satisfaction and engagement, increase motivation, and create a positive workplace culture

Key Elements of Philosophy of Pay/Reward System

The philosophy of pay/reward systems refers to the underlying principles and values that guide the design and implementation of compensation and rewards systems in organizations. A well-defined philosophy of pay/reward systems can help to ensure that compensation practices are aligned with organizational values, objectives, and culture.

Here are some key elements of a philosophy of pay/reward systems:

  1. Fairness: A philosophy of pay/reward systems should prioritize fairness in compensation practices. This includes ensuring that pay and rewards are based on objective criteria and that employees are compensated fairly for their skills, experience, and contributions to the organization.
  2. Alignment: Compensation and reward systems should be aligned with organizational values, objectives, and culture. This includes ensuring that compensation practices are consistent with the organization’s mission and goals, and that they promote the behaviors and outcomes that the organization values.
  3. Transparency: A philosophy of pay/reward systems should prioritize transparency in compensation practices. This includes communicating openly and honestly with employees about compensation practices and ensuring that employees understand how their pay and rewards are determined.
  4. Flexibility: Compensation and reward systems should be flexible enough to adapt to changes in the business environment, as well as to the needs and preferences of employees. This includes offering a variety of compensation and reward options that are tailored to the unique needs and preferences of individual employees.
  5. Alignment with legal and ethical considerations: A philosophy of pay/reward systems should prioritize alignment with legal and ethical considerations, such as compliance with employment laws and regulations, avoiding discrimination, and promoting ethical behavior.

In conclusion, a philosophy of pay/reward systems should prioritize fairness, alignment with organizational values, transparency, flexibility, and alignment with legal and ethical considerations. By adopting a clear and well-defined philosophy of pay/reward systems, organizations can ensure that their compensation practices are aligned with their values and objectives, and that they promote a positive organizational culture that attracts, retains, and motivates high-performing employees.

Financial Benefit

Financial benefits refer to the various monetary rewards or incentives that employers offer to employees as part of their overall compensation package. Financial benefits can include a wide range of options, such as base pay, bonuses, commissions, profit sharing, stock options, retirement plans, and insurance benefits.

Financial benefits are an important component of an employee’s total compensation package, and can help to attract, retain, and motivate employees. By offering competitive financial benefits, employers can create a more attractive and appealing workplace, while also demonstrating their commitment to supporting their employees.

There are several different types of financial benefits that employers may offer to employees, including:

  1. Base pay: Base pay is the amount of money that an employee receives in exchange for their work. This can be in the form of a salary or hourly wage.
  2. Bonuses: Bonuses are typically one-time payments made to employees as a reward for their performance, contributions, or achievements.
  3. Commissions: Commissions are a form of incentive pay that are based on the sales or revenue that an employee generates.
  4. Profit sharing: Profit sharing programs allow employees to share in the profits of the company, typically through a percentage-based bonus.
  5. Stock options: Stock options give employees the right to purchase company stock at a predetermined price, providing the potential for financial gain if the stock price increases.
  6. Retirement plans: Retirement plans, such as 401(k) plans or pensions, help employees save for their future and provide financial security during retirement.
  7. Insurance benefits: Insurance benefits, such as health insurance or life insurance, can provide financial protection and security for employees and their families.

Overall, financial benefits are an important way for employers to support and reward their employees, while also helping to attract and retain top talent in a competitive job market.

Non-Pay Financial Benefit

Non-pay financial benefits refer to the benefits that an employer may offer to employees, in addition to their regular salary or wages. These benefits can help to enhance the total compensation package of an employee and can often provide additional financial security and support. Some typical non-pay financial benefits include:

  1. Flexible spending accounts (FSAs): FSAs allow employees to set aside pre-tax dollars for medical expenses or dependent care expenses.
  2. Employee assistance programs (EAPs): EAPs provide employees with access to counseling, mental health services, and other support programs.
  3. Tuition reimbursement: Some employers offer tuition reimbursement to employees who pursue additional education or training.
  4. Pension schemes: Employers may offer various pension schemes, such as defined benefit or defined contribution plans, to help employees save for retirement.
  5. Share schemes: Some employers offer share schemes to their employees, giving them the opportunity to purchase company shares at a discounted price.
  6. Company car: In some cases, employers may offer a company car to employees as part of their compensation package.
  7. Personal security: This can include a variety of benefits such as travel insurance, identity theft protection, or emergency assistance services.
  8. Extra-statutory sick pay: This refers to sick pay that is provided by the employer, in addition to any statutory sick pay required by law.
  9. Death in service benefits: These benefits provide a lump sum payment or ongoing income to an employee’s beneficiaries in the event of their death.
  10. Personal accident cover: This type of insurance provides financial support to employees who are injured or disabled as a result of an accident.
  11. Medical insurance: Some employers offer medical insurance as a benefit to employees, providing coverage for medical expenses and other healthcare costs.
  12. Financial assistance: This can include various types of financial assistance, such as loans or advances, that an employer may provide to employees in need of financial support.

Overall, non-pay financial benefits can be an important part of an employee’s total compensation package, providing additional financial support and security beyond their regular salary or wages.

Cafeteria Approach to Rewards Management (Perkins and White, 2011)

The cafeteria approach to rewards management is a compensation strategy that allows employees to choose their own rewards based on their individual needs and preferences. This approach recognizes that employees have different needs and motivations and allows them to select benefits and incentives that are most meaningful to them. 

  1. Allows employees a degree of choice in their total remuneration package, e.g.  by permitting them to take less in non-pay benefits and more in pay, or vice versa
  2. The core benefit element will be salary
  3. The costed benefits will be elements such as car, Health Insurance, Childcare, extra holiday
  4. Employees chose the package” they wish to “construct”.  
  5. The total overall value of their compensation will be the same whatever choices they make. 
  6. This allows the individual to tailor their rewards to their particular needs and alter these as their needs change.

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