Keith Jeketera
Gender and Community reporter
For years, we’ve been led to believe that a bigger paycheck is the key to unlocking employee satisfaction. But what if I told you that’s just a myth?
A growing body of evidence suggests that true happiness at work comes from something far more profound.
Methembe Vundla puts it bluntly: “A pay check might get someone in the door, but culture is what keeps them.”
When employees feel seen and valued, they’re not just going through the motions – they’re bringing their best selves forward.
Michael Phiri, a seasoned communications expert, agrees. With 20 years of experience as a highly paid interim, he’s learned that success depends on daily contribution and recognition.
The real drivers of employee motivation and retention are surprisingly simple. It’s about knowing your voice is heard, feeling appreciated and acknowledged for your work, and belonging to something bigger than your job description.
When these elements are present, teams thrive under pressure, and employees are more likely to stay engaged and motivated.
But here’s the kicker: employees don’t quit when the workload is tough. They quit when they feel invisible. When their contributions go unrecognized, and their voices fall on deaf ears, they’re more likely to walk out the door.
The solution is clear. Managers need to prioritize building a culture of trust, appreciation, and recognition.
By doing so, they can unlock the full potential of their teams and create a work environment where employees feel valued, heard, and motivated to excel.
So, what do you think is the most important factor in driving employee happiness and motivation? Is it the paycheck, or is it something more?
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