A simple and common sense formula for business improvement is: Satisfy the basics + daily motivation + inspired leadership = positive results

It is true that you must satisfy the basics. No one will be motivated by poor work conditions and salary. Herzberg claimed that a human being has two main sets of needs – to avoid pain (‘hygiene factors’) and to grow psychologically (‘motivational factors’). With reference to the workplace, the hygiene factors include salary, work policies, work environment, security and status level. Unless we first get these correct, Herzberg claims that you cannot even think about starting to motivate.

Motivational factors affect ‘the person’ and these include achievement, responsibility, advancement and personal growth. It is impossible to promote these factors if an employee perceives they have a poor salary, inadequate work conditions, burdensome policies, feelings of insecurity or lack of status. This employee is unlikely to be open to new ideas and concepts in order to grow what they see as your business and ultimately your money.

Communication is a key component of social needs: a hygiene factor. It is natural to want to be involved in the workplace. Many employees complain of a lack of communication at work, but really what they mean is a lack of meaningful communication. Employees do actually want to hear about the business, what the pharmacy is planning, how they can contribute and importantly how well they are doing. Work isolation does not support a positive environment. You must be aware that people communicate in different ways and, as a manager, you need to be able to meet these varying needs.

So, the first step is to get the basics right. Then you can start to develop your business to deliver optimum profits.