Winning the War for Talent: Modern Motivational Methods for Attracting and Retaining Employees

Anais  Thibault-Landry; Allan  Schweyer; Ashley V. Whillans

Article | Compensation & Benefits Review | September 2017

Winning the War for Talent: Modern Motivational Methods for Attracting and Retaining Employees

by Anais Thibault-Landry, Allan Schweyer and Ashley V. Whillans

Abstract

Given the struggle that many organizations face hiring and retaining talent in today's tight labor market, it is critical to understand how to effectively reward employees. To address this question, we review relevant evidence that explains the importance of workplace rewards and recognition. Based on a review and synthesis of the current literature, we make the case that organizations should move beyond salary and traditional cash rewards to place greater emphasis on non-pecuniary, tangible and intangible rewards and recognition initiatives. We further highlight the importance of aligning rewards with universal psychological needs. Finally, we discuss the need to conduct more research to understand when and for whom cash and non-cash rewards increase intrinsic motivation, organizational commitment, and optimal functioning in order to improve the design and implementation of existing reward programs.

Keywords: rewards; total reward strategies; incentives; recognition; motivation; psychological needs; Employees; Retention; Motivation and Incentives; Working Conditions;

Format: Print

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Citation:

Thibault-Landry, Anais, Allan Schweyer, and Ashley V. Whillans. "Winning the War for Talent: Modern Motivational Methods for Attracting and Retaining Employees." Compensation & Benefits Review 49, no. 4 (September 2017): 230–246.

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Winning the War for Talent: Modern Motivational Methods for Attracting and Retaining Employees

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