Introduction. Motivation is a term of many meanings. In general, it means readiness to take some action. Like motivation, motivating can be a complex and complicated process. This is due to the fact that each individual has different needs and different goals. Motivating factors in the work of nurses, such as the amount of wages, the chance to improve their skills through participation in courses and other forms of training, working conditions and cooperation in an interdisciplinary team will depend on individual needs and the situation. The analysis of employees’ needs conducted by the team manager will allow to create proper work conditions, moreover it will motivate employees and thus improve the quality of services and the image of the company. Aim. The aim of this study was to determine whether the job seniority affects the choice of an incentive. The study also examined which incentives, both financial and non-financial as well as intangible assets, are the most motivating. Material and methods. The research tool was a questionnaire survey created by the author. It comprised 14 closed questions, single or multiple choice. The study included answers of 100 nursing students of the Medical University in Warsaw. All of the respondents were economically active. Results and conclusions. Creating an appropriate scheme of incentives tailored to individual needs can motivate employees to more efficient work, and thus, it affects functioning of an organization and improves the level of provided services.

Key words: motivation, purpose, need, workplace.