Motivation is encouraging someone to accomplish something that they may not have the desire to complete. Center directors have to recognize when employees require motivation or in some cases additional motivation. There is not one form of motivation that is appropriate for all employees. The workforce is comprised of various form of diversity: race, gender, age and physical abilities to name a few. However, generational diversity is creating new challenges for today’s employers with Baby Boomers, (born 1945-64), Generation X (born 1965-80), and Generation Y (born after 1980). The Generation X and Baby Boomer populations make up the majority of the seasoned workforce. However, the Generation Y population is changing the work force. Because center directors are faced with a diverse population they are forced to become creative with the techniques used to motivate their employees. Directors should be flexible and generate programs that attract the Generation Y population while enticing the Baby Boomers and Generation X populations to stay with the organization.
The key to motivating individuals within the early childhood field is to understand and acknowledge their differences. Center directors should not assume that the same techniques will motivate all employees. Motivational concepts are not universal because all staff are individually unique. With that being said, recognize that the same techniques utilized to motivate a college student would not be the best technique for a seasoned employee. It would not be beneficial to place these individuals in the same category or motivate them in the same fashion. To motivate a diverse population, first recognize the differences between the generations, and alter interactions to meet their individual needs.
Baby Boomers can be motivated by being told that they are competent and doing a good job. They should be provided with regular feedback on their job performance. Where Generation X population wants to be allowed to complete tasks in their own way and they tend to think outside of the box. They do not enjoy too many rules and regulation because they make them feel trapped in a box. The Generation Y population can be motivated by being part of a team. They like to know how they fit into the overall goal of the organization. They like to know the part that they play in the completion of the task and the timeline for the task. This provides them with a sense of belonging. Center directors have to recognize that no matter which generation they have employed at their center the individuals will, appreciate an employer that provides accommodations that motivate them to achieve greater success in their personal and professional lives.