Dan Pink has essentially mapped the proven data on internal vs. external reward systems in his book Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us. In short, he shows that high-level work must draw from interior motivation. The external perks are nice but enduring success must draw from within.
What are the internal gifts that you can give to your people? Nearly every one is free, including:
- Courtesy: speaking someone's name when you see them and remembering what's important to them.
- Gratitude: expressing thanks and appreciation for volunteers or gifts given.
- Eye contact: showing that you care enough to look someone in the eye.
- Attention to detail: remembering little things like where a person is from or something that they like.
None of these cost anything. Each of these is valuable.