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How are Boots' employees motivated?

Boots has a reputation for being a traditionally 'paternalistic' business. Its roots are based in the philosophy of looking after customers and staff and, as a result, caring for the communities in which it operates. This philosophy involves:

• treating its employees well
• involving them in the business
• offering a 'stake' in the company through participation and share ownership
• being proud of the way the business discharges its corporate social responsibilities

Boots' philosophy of looking after its customers and staff might extend to employees being given a free day trip to visit a famous landmark. © Photolibrary Group

Recognising the importance of motivation, many companies (and Boots is a good example of this) are keen to stress the chances for self-development, the recognition of good work and the sense of achievement that workers can enjoy in their jobs. These factors - 'motivators' as Herzberg termed them - are vital for company success. The adverse impact on motivation that results from the 'Getting in Shape' strategy, is hard to quantify. But it is clear that Boots will have to try hard to regain the trust of its employees, if it is to benefit from proper staff motivation in the future. The short term impact of the cost cutting may be to boost profits and therefore keep shareholders happy, but if this is achieved, in part by damaging the bond between the company and its employees, it may be a short-lived improvement.

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