The Last Word

Keeping staffs excited, let alone, motivated, has always been a challenge, particularly in today’s business environment…with lower budgets, higher workloads and minimal job security.  Stock options are still used as motivational tools by some companies, but, as we all know, valuations can quickly collapse, no matter how hard the staff works.  Other companies try team-building exercises and staff outings, training courses and they move people around in their organizations to keep jobs fresh. 

In researching the matter, we came across a trade show that’s coming up in England later this month called “Incentive World.”  And what incentives do they offer to entice you to attend?  Well, you’ll get to meet over 400 suppliers (of bubble pens and the like) and receive free advice.  The promoters also say “Entry is free of charge – now that’s good value!”  Not quite convinced by that line.
There are many quotable quotes on motivation, some profound, some humorous and some, like this one, hit the mark like a cold slap in the face:

“When he reached the New World, Cortez burned his ships. As a result, his crew was well motivated.”
--The Hunt for Red October

Burning the ships might be a little extreme for today’s businesses.  Perhaps this next one is more appropriate.

“Nothing in the world can take the place of persistence. Talent will not; nothing is more common than unsuccessful men with talent. Genius will not; unrewarded genius is almost a proverb. Education will not; the world is full of educated derelicts. Persistence and determination alone are omnipotent. The slogan, 'Press on,' has solved and always will solve the problems of the human race.”
--Calvin Coolidge

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