[Superman]

Different things motivate different people. Some folks just want the money. And money does make recognition seem more sincere. But the recognition is the biggest part.

Ever hear of the Golden Banana award? According to rumor, an HP manager scrambled to come up with a spur-of-the-moment recognition for a worker whose extra effort achieved an important breakthrough. All he had was a banana left over from his lunch. It became the coveted award at HP.

Be very clear and public about the recognition. Tell everyone the story, and why it is a story worthy of recognition. And again, money adds sincerity. I don't expect management to hand over profits, or even percents of profits, to workers.

Give the worker an awesome parking space. Take the worker and spouse out to a real nice dinner. Recognize him or her in front of others. Include that person in more significant strategic discussions. These would thrill me more. But some folks are not motivated by that. Managers should know what individual workers prize, and play to those needs. Sincerely.