I guess everyone can say to himself whether he likes or not his job/pay. You can do a search on the Internet for the results of job satisfaction surveys. Here are two that I found - one German survey and another from the US.

In any case, I’m not convinced someone’s appearance is enough to tell. Perhaps your bus driver is just being friendly

I thank you for reassuring me: I have calmed down.

Things have become clearer. You want people to have working relations as if they were independent entrepreneurs. In the case above the bus drivers are like local McDonalds managers: they get the brand, facilities and tools to work with.

It reminds me of the story you told about handing out Ritter Sport chocolate bars to administrative employees at your company. How would these employees be employed?

I think your idea is interestingly creative. Still, questions remain. Why are they (apparently) satisfied with a static salary for driving their buses? What keeps these ‘bus drivers’ from employing themselves? Lack of entrepreneurial spirit? Risk avoidance?

I am sure you will let me know…

Regards,

Michel