Question: A comment on the motivators they might employ. Offer suggestions based on your own experience or based on research.

Motivators are a key factor in recruiting and maintaining a positive workplace culture. Gone are the days where only money talks; while it is still a motivating factor for some, potential employees are looking for more when they choose where to work. It is a good thing that money is no longer the only factor because as a startup company it is not readily available. One of the highlights of this new company would be an open workspace where collaboration is encouraged. This would allow employees to not have to sit in a stuffy office or cubicle and encourages creativity working with one another. Offering team building exercises would also be a great way to grow the culture of the organization while providing opportunities to have fun with each other. As a small startup it is not possible to offer gourmet meals or an onsite massage parlor but going out for a friendly game of bowling or to an art class is a way to bond with one another. These out of office experiences will help to deepen the bond between the colleagues and have a positive impact on their creativity.

Providing a flexible work schedule and environment is another motivator that could be used with a startup to recruit top talent. Allowing individuals to create their own schedule will greatly improve their work-life balance to create a harmonious experience. According to Dan Pink, autonomy, the ability to direct one's own life, is one of the greatest motivators for employees (2009). When an employee can work on their own schedule, it allows them to live a fuller life. They are no longer needing to request days off to go to a doctor's appointment, or to their child's school program, they can complete their work around their schedule.

Creating a workplace culture that supports creativity, autonomy, and teamwork is a great way to recruit and retain talent. Research now shows that motivators for employees are no longer just centered around financial benefits. Employees are looking for their work to matter, and to be able to live their best lives both at home and at work.