For long-term success in motivating an employee, a manager should focus on:

Focusing on understanding the employee's goals and interests is crucial for long-term success in motivation because it helps create a more personalized approach to management. When managers take the time to recognize what drives their employees—whether it's professional development, work-life balance, or opportunities for creative expression—they can tailor their management strategies to support those aspirations. This not only boosts engagement and job satisfaction but also encourages employees to take ownership of their work and aligns their personal goals with the organization's objectives.

By understanding individual motivations, managers can foster a supportive environment that nurtures growth and fulfillment, which leads to sustained motivation and productivity over time. In contrast, relying solely on performance-based bonuses or incentives may produce short-term results but often fails to cultivate a lasting commitment from employees. Similarly, mere reminders about job performance or creating competition without considering individual motivations can lead to frustration and disengagement rather than inspire and empower employees. Therefore, the best practice for cultivating a motivated workforce is to genuinely understand and align with employees' personal and professional goals.