Discretionary Effort

What is Discretionary Effort?

Discretionary effort refers to the additional effort employees willingly put into their work beyond what is expected or required. It is typically driven by intrinsic motivation, such as a sense of ownership, passion for the job, or alignment with the company’s goals and values. When employees invest discretionary effort, they go above and beyond in their roles, contributing to higher performance and innovation.

Why it's Important

Discretionary effort is crucial for business success because it directly impacts productivity, innovation, and overall company performance. Employees who are motivated to exert extra effort tend to have higher engagement, deliver superior results, and foster a positive work culture.

Discretionary Effort in Practice

In practice, employees who put in discretionary effort might stay late to meet a deadline, help colleagues with their tasks, or propose new ideas. These employees are more likely to show commitment to the company and its success.

Benefits of Discretionary Effort for Organizations

• Employees putting in extra effort often come up with creative ideas and solutions.
• Discretionary effort is often a result of high employee engagement, which can be nurtured through recognition.

Best Practices for Encouraging Discretionary Effort

• Acknowledge and celebrate instances of discretionary effort to encourage others.
• Offer employees the tools and opportunities to take ownership of their roles.
• Create an environment where employees feel valued and motivated to go above and beyond.
• Ensure employees understand how their discretionary effort aligns with company objectives.