How to Motivate Contract Workers

In this fast-paced and ever-changing economy, employers are turning more and more to independent contractors as a way of staving off human resource costs. Yet, how do you motivate workers who have no long-term investment in your company's interests? Incentive-based strategies have been quite effective in building trust and loyalty, and boosting productivity.

Instructions

Incentives To Succeed

1. First, build solidarity among your contract workers by creating a team-based challenge. Give them a clear goal to rally toward and not only will your contract workers be more productive but they will also motivate each other. The rewards for your team-based challenge should be universal, something the entire staff can appreciate. Some great ideas for team based incentives are luxury additions to the employees' break room or a company-sponsored vacation trip. These extra costs will pay off once your team is motivated and dedicated to your business.

2. Post regular bulletins and reports on where your business is thriving and hurting. Be honest with contract workers about your performance expectations and never miss an opportunity to give credit where it is due. Keep the lines of communication open and your workers will have a clear idea of where they stand in your organization.

3. Offer long-term employment opportunities to your contract workers. Even if your staffing budget is rather low, create at least one position that carries the long-term benefits of full-time employment. This might take the form of stock options, paid vacation time or insurance coverage. Once your contract workers know that a more secure position is available, they will want to work harder toward long-term stability.

4. Start an individual earnings challenge. Some healthy competition between your contract workers is an excellent way to motivate the team. Although many businesses offer gift cards as individual incentives, a more functional prize would go further in terms of motivation. For example, a laptop computer or a specialized tool shows your employees that you're willing to invest in their future. Although a new set of golf clubs might buy loyalty in the short term, your individual rewards should meet the contract workers' needs, first and foremost.

Tips & Warnings

• For incentive gift items, consider bartering with local businesses.

Resources

• Incentive Magazine
• Incentive Logic