When it comes to motivation, business is quick to resort to a sweeter carrot or a sharper stick. But science says: tap into the drive for autonomy, build on the desire to master what we do, and create a purpose — something larger than the individual self — and you’ll bring out the best in people.
I find this true with compliance and ethics programs. Yes, it’s true, the program must state the law and the requirement to abide by the law. But it shouldn’t stop there. It should also focus on principles and the ability to self-govern by higher principles.