I’ve been paid bi-weekly at many jobs, and consistently since joining academia in 2007. I find this to be motivating to me in managing my budget, managing my productivity, and planning ahead for future projects.
By getting paid bi-weekly, it forces me to work hard in between pay periods on other sources of income (or on spending less until the next check comes along). In my business, I find that the weeks I don’t get paid by the school are the most productive for me in bringing about new business, working with existing clients, and planning ahead for future projects.
While many may not have the time nor the resources to take on a second job or side business, I have found that overall, I have seen less turnover in roles I have worked in where the staff gets paid bi-weekly, and have seen that the staff works harder (especially if it is a commission based sales position) on the weeks between pay periods.
What are your thoughts on bi-weekly pay? Does it work for you?