Performance should improve when pay is tied to results, yet many organizations find the opposite. This session explores why traditional pay for performance models often fall short and how motivational science offers an alternative path. The session traces the roots of modern pay systems, uncovers what decades of research say about human motivation, and offers practical design approaches that strengthen commitment, trust, and contribution. Leaders will gain a more grounded understanding of how to reinforce performance without creating noise, pressure, or disengagement.

Key takeaways

• Understand how historical management shaped current pay practices and why familiar models can unintentionally work against performance
• Learn what motivation research reveals about intrinsic and extrinsic drivers and how those forces show up in real organizational behavior
• Explore practical approaches that support autonomy, clarity, purpose, and contribution while still using rewards wisely