Motivation and Satisfaction of Employees: Analysis, Risks, Ways of Improvement

The article examines the state of motivation and the level of satisfaction of employees (on the example of working students and teachers of higher education institutions) in the pandemic and presents the most significant instruments for their strengthening. In particular, the authors, based on the results of a sociological study, define that in the context of the pandemic, the values of employees have changed, which causes the need to strengthen the motivation instruments that provide safe working conditions, help reduce the «toxicity of the environment» and provide a decent level of remuneration. Researching the level of satisfaction and motivation of employees, the following risks of motivation and decrease in employee satisfaction from work for the company are systematized and distinguished: operational, brand (image), productivity, and also well-being. By introducing the concept of «motivational portfolio», by which the authors understand the set of instruments, measures that provide internal and external motivation of employees; the following recommendations are formed to strengthen the efficiency of motivation and increase the level of staff satisfaction: 1) harmonious combination of material and intangible components of motivation; 2) taking into account the value profile of employees; 3) combining and coordinating the goals (tasks) of the employee and the company; 4) strengthening the social component of motivation (improving the social package, involving intangible motives, such as working hours management, labor organization, ensuring decent safe working conditions, recognizing the results of work and its value for society)