Motivation is the driving factor that pushes the employees to perform well. The initial enthusiasm of the freshermen does not continue as the days pass in majority cases. De-motivation is one of the major causes for the high attrition rates. Companies are on the constant look out for mitigating the factors that cause de-motivation.

Different means of preventing de-motivation can be stated as follows:

· Challenging work
After the initial learning period, people look for challenges for attaining career growth. Highly monotonous work is a great de-motivating factor. People lose interest in the kind of work they do and move to other organizations which offer intriguing work.

· Promotion policies
The climb up the career ladder must be based on performance. This brings out a competitive spirit to outperform and gives birth to innovative ideas which aids in profit maximization. Performance based promotional system is therefore inevitable in an organization. To judge the individual performance, the pre requisite is an effective appraisal system. Self appraisal, appraisal from supervisors, peers and subordinates help in reaching a clear picture of the employee performance free from prejudice. The career growth policies should be well drafted and strict compliance of the same must be done. Changes to the company policies must be in the direction of the changes in the industry.

· Motivational schemes
Financial and non financial methods of reward go a long way in motivating the employees. Rewards like salary, perquisites and allowances must be comparable with those existing within the industry. The policies must be redrafted to accommodate the changes in the government taxation schemes, finally favouring the employee. Similarly, non finance motivational methods like appreciation for good performance, a pat on the back, congratulating the employee through the internal channels, all add to better performance.

· Working culture
A favorable relationship must exist between the players in the organization. Employees expect mutual respect, appreciation for the work done, an open amicable relationship within the organization, and participation in decision making concerning them. Honest ethical standards must reside within the organization. The management must take interests on assisting the employees in maintaining a work-life balance. Flexible working hours, providing for working from home all aid in reducing employee stress. A happy personal and professional life creates wonders to one’s motivation.

· Working environment
The organization must give importance to the employee welfare. The working environment must be clean and facilities for employee relaxation like gymnasium, library and other places for fighting stress must be incorporated within the organization. In India, time taken to commute being a major worry coaxed the company to provide transportation facilities for the employees. There was a time when people were willing to move to those companies which are near to their place of stay even with some adjustments on other factors like pay and other benefits. Thus the company policies must be flexible to adapt the changing needs of the people. If the company closes its eyes to the needs of the employees, it will result in de-motivated workforce.

Thus the employees’ need based company policies with excellent opportunities for growth and development reduces the chances for de-motivation.