Employers who are concerned about the availability of their workers need to start with an understanding of what motivates their workers. Income is the first incentive that comes to mind. However, other issues may be important to workers and may provide powerful incentives if employers are in a position to implement them. For an employer who hires working parents, particularly women with small children, providing childcare at the work site may represent a significant benefit, which may translate into greater employee loyalty and lower rates of absenteeism. In the case of seasonal farmworkers, many of whom come from foreign countries, it may be important to understand a worker's long-term objectives.
Income is a basic motivation for any employment.
For many agricultural jobs that involve repeated tasks, a piece rate system is a common method of payment. In general, a piece rate system is designed to influence worker performance. Higher piece rates are expected to motivate workers to increase their productivity level. In agriculture, however, the piece rate may fluctuate for reasons beyond stimulating productivity. Rate may be adjusted for varying field and labor supply conditions.