Want to know the most effective ways to motivate employees? This article reveals some of the most powerful employee motivation techniques that have been proven to work for reputable companies.

But first, why motivate? Well, everyone could use a little inspiration or a "driving force" to help them become more productive and efficient. Considering that some of the ways to motivate employees are actually quite simple, it would be worthwhile to apply them for both the company and employee’s benefit.

1. Remind the important role your employee has on the workplace.

This is especially useful with mom and pop start-ups. If the pay is small, and the employee wants to find better opportunities somewhere else, reminding them about the important role they make in your company (with appreciation) can boost their morale and sense of contribution.

2. Treat them like part of the family.

Motivation is highly influenced by how you treat your subordinates in general. Making your employees feel comfortable at their workplaces could make them stay longer and do their job much more efficiently. This is one of the proven ways to motivate employees.

On the other hand, treating your employees like emotion-less robots can hamper their productivity. Think about it, how would you like to work in a place where you are screamed at the whole time? While some people believe this is a normal set-up (it’s not), think about what will happen in the long run.

3. Use bonuses.

This is one of the ways to motivate employees that might entail additional costs, but could pay off in spades. Many companies don’t use bonuses because of two reasons. They either don’t have the financial numbers to move in such a way, or the company is usually too stingy to say the least.

If the company’s earnings have skyrocketed at the end of the month, then why not reward employees with bonus money or points to accumulate prizes?

Effective companies design bonuses so that employees would strive hard in order to obtain it. The main purpose of bonuses is to keep people working diligently in order to obtain additional money or compensation for the extra effort put in.

Although it would cost the company, it might also benefit by having employees that are more productive and happier with their work.

However, before you think of investing and using ways to motivate employees that involve your finances, be sure to look at your company numbers; and of course, consider the motivation that’s right for your people!