Motivational Strategies to Increase Employee Productivity in Small Businesses

In a turbulent economy, small business owners are the driving force to propel innovation and create abundant opportunities for success. Small business owners must identify motivational strategies to maintain and increase employee productivity. Employee productivity is essential to small business owners to avoid high turnover and increase organizational profits. Grounded in Herzberg’s two-factor theory, the purpose of this qualitative pragmatic inquiry study was to explore motivational strategies small business owners use to increase employee productivity. Participants were six small business owners from the Pee Dee region of South Carolina who used effective motivational strategies to increase employee productivity. Data were collected using semistructured interviews, field notes, and participant website sources. Data were analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s six-step thematic analysis, and three themes emerged: interpersonal relationships, competitive compensation, and recognition. A key recommendation for small business owners is to integrate a competitive compensation package by offering performance-based bonuses, comprehensive benefits packages, and avenues for professional growth and advancement. Implications for positive social change include the potential for small business owners to develop successful motivational strategies, create economic sustainability, increase employment opportunities, and promote community growth.