Growing Software

Motivating Your Team Members

Development teams are motivated in ways that differ from those of other teams—engineers generally do not respond well to "rah-rah" pep talks, emotional appeals, or contests. What motivates individual development engineers varies, but they will usually tell you what they need if you ask them. These are some common motivations for engineers:

• Technical challenge

• Opportunity for career success and advancement

• Opportunity to participate in an outside organization, forum, or technology group

• Financial opportunity such as a stock award or raise

• Chance to go to conferences or seminars

• Flexible work schedule that allows them to schedule their own day and not have to arrive at 8 am or be marked late

• Recognition from peers

• Recognition ...