Human resource professionals use Maslow's ideas to find ways to satisfy those needs in the work environment. Research has found that the greatest motivators in the workplace include paycheck, recognition, open communication, and opportunities for growth. Steps include giving recognition to deserving employees, encouraging employees to take the initiative, maintaining an open book management policy, soliciting feedback, conducting frequent performance reviews and providing positive reinforcements. A manager should encourage skill development, delegate responsibility, remain accessible and keep a positive work environment. Recognition works differently than a reward in that a reward is given for work that is already done and recognition reinforces the desired behavior.
Recognition fights low morale which leads to low productivity and decreasing loyalty.
Recognition can be in the form of awards, plaques, or paid time-off, and can be as simple as a round of applause or a pat on the back. One of the best examples of how recognition can work is the Dierbergs Family Market. They are encouraged to be proactive in meeting customer needs, such as when an employee stopped to change a tire for a customer. As a result, more than 80 percent of customer feedback at Dierbergs is complimentary. Dierbergs won the 1997 Arthur Andersen Award for Best Business Practices for Motivation and Retaining Employees.