Staff motivation theory. Maslow's triangle Figure: 2 Herzberg's Job Design model.

Staff motivation theory Expectancy Theory: Life's a game of weighing odds. In contrast, Theory Y assumes employees are self-motivated, enjoy their work, and seek responsibility. The human need to grow, feel valued, and have confidence in skills is at the heart of this SHRM-approved theory, especially in difficult external times. It’s relevant to all of society but is especially important to business and management. ” Dec 17, 2024 · Employee engagement and goal setting theory; Employee engagement motivation theories; Here are the basics. 2. Employees who work at firms with employee motivation programs report higher levels of job satisfaction. Herzberg's Two-Factor Theory has been extensively utilized by researchers in the fields of organizational behaviour, human resource management, and employee motivation (Chiat & Panatik, 2019 As with many questions involving human beings, the answer is anything but simple. Recognition is a vital aspect of employee May 1, 2012 · 21 In self-determination theory (SDT), motivation is defined as intrinsic, extrinsic motivation and amotivation (or nonmotivation). Sep 18, 2019 · When it comes to motivating their employees, it can be said without question that Google stands out from the rest. Herzberg's Motivation Theory, which is also known as Two-Factor or Hygiene Theory, is another one of the more renowned employee motivation theories. Nov 9, 2024 · An expectancy theory model for hotel employee motivation. Higher; Motivation and leadership Motivational theories Companies can motivate employees to do a better job with incentives such as increased pay or improved working conditions. Mar 4, 2025 · ERG theory of motivation by Clayton Alderfer is a redefined version of Maslow’s need hierarchy theory. Employees thus become motivated to make choices that will increase their use of the restaurants. Recognition. Two theories of motivation include extrinsic motivation and intrinsic motivation. While theories of motivation have their roots in humanities disciplines like psychology and sociology, according to Verywell Mind, their applications span across all parts of life, and they’re especially useful in the Jun 1, 2014 · The second theory is the Motivation-Based Theory, which states that even though people are overqualified and have the ability to perform well, overqualification results in low performance because Mar 17, 2025 · This employee motivation theory is all about creating a workplace environment that helps employees be their best selves. Employee motivation is also likely to be higher if the organisation invests in its staff through training and development. Adams' Equity Theory provides insight into the former, and McClelland's Achievement Motivation Theory covers the latter. HR strategies, including compensation, benefits, job design, training, cultural development, and performance evaluations, can be tailored to cater Herzberg’s dual-factor theory also known as Motivation-Hygiene Theory states that motivation is driven by different factors, which are defined by personal experiences and values and determine the basis for a coherent and vital sense of self-esteem and integrity . Victor Vroom's Expectancy Theory hits this nail on the head. The theory comprises three components: expectancy (belief in effort-performance linkage), instrumentality (belief performance leads to outcomes) & valence (value of outcomes). 2 Two-Factor Theory of Motivation. 5 2021. It has been broadly defined as the "psychological forces that determine the direction of a person's behavior in an organisation, a person's level of effort and a person's level of persistence". Google Scholar Dartey-Baah, K. Key research findings indicate that employees have several reasons to leave their workplaces, such as job stress, job satisfaction, job security, work environment, motivation, wages, and rewards. R. g poor teamwork in the workplace Jan 30, 2021 · These motivational theories included Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs Theory, Herzberg’s Motivation-Maintenance Theory, the Expectancy Theory, McGregor’s Theory X/TheoryY, and the Goal Setting Mar 4, 2025 · Expectancy theory is a motivational theory by Victor Vroom that explains why employees choose to perform certain behaviors in the workplace. In Frederick Herzberg’s Two-Factor Theory of Motivation, motivation factors are looked at in two separate dimensions: Satisfaction and Dissatisfaction (Herzberg et al. Under Theory X, one can take a hard or soft approach to getting results. Sep 1, 2016 · There are several major theories that provide understanding of employee motivation: motives and needs (Maslow, 1943), expectancy theory (Vroom, 1964), equity theory (Adams, 1963), goal setting (Locke & Latham, 1990), cognitive evaluation theory (Deci, 1971), work design (Hackman & Oldham, 1976), and reinforcement theory (Skinner, 1953). References. It has profound implications for pay scale , performance management, and employee retention strategies. It's important to every aspect of society but is especially relevant to business and management. 4 This theory distinguishes between job satisfaction and dissatisfaction in the workplace, asserting that certain factors—”hygiene” issues like salary and work conditions—prevent discontent, while motivators such as recognition and challenging work truly drive performance. Feb 17, 2025 · Employee motivation is critical to performance, engagement, and overall well-being. Nov 29, 2024 · Incentive theory offers valuable insights into what drives employee motivation in the workplace. Jan 1, 2015 · Through extensive research and analysis, social psychologist Thomas Maslow developed his well-respected theory of human motivation and responsive behavior. The expectancy theory of motivation provides Nov 15, 2024 · Herzberg's Theory of Motivation. Incentive theory The incentive motivational theory suggests that reinforcement, recognition, incentives, and rewards motivate people. Oct 25, 2024 · The Importance of Employee Motivation. The company is profit-oriented and seeks to produce more output at the least possible cost. International Journal of Hospitality Management, 313–322. ” Regardless of which theory is followed, interesting work and employee pay appear to be important links to higher motivation of centers' employees. Some of the dominant needs-based theories are: Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs; ERG Theory; McGregor’s Theory X and Theory Y; Herzberg’s Two-Factor Theory; McClelland’s Needs Theory Effective strategies to boost motivation using goal-setting theory: Be clear about what you want to achieve and ensure your goals are measurable and specific so that you can track your progress. And yet, the appropriateness of leadership style depends on the organization and its tasks (Pearson, 2020). Alderfer's ERG Theory; Mayo's Motivation Theory; Process theories are based on understanding the ways motivation happens and exploring which processes optimise motivation. It encourages people to strive for goals by offering rewards that feel meaningful and relevant. In the context of this REA, the focus of motivation is an employee’s day-to-day job. Sep 23, 2024 · In fact, inequity in the treatment of employees can even lead to absenteeism or high employee turnover. They focus on how to motivate employees. Motivators in this context refer to job recognition, promotion, and achievement. They don’t have to be huge, extravagant rewards either. It provides two contrasting views of employee motivation: Theory X assumes employees put in the bare minimum and require direct supervision; Theory Y posits that employees are self-motivated and thrive on responsibility. Theory X is authoritarian, authoritative leadership. However, while tracking employee performance is a useful metric, you can’t encourage long-term improvements without applying a strategic approach. May 1, 2021 · Relatively, the Expectancy Theory of Motivation by Vroom as cited by Watters (2021) holds that people are motivated to do things and to reach a goal if they believe in the worth of the goal they valence theory for understanding employees’ expectations of managers’ communication interactions about their performance to better understand employees’ motivation. These primary factors that either increase employee satisfaction or interfere with them. Theory X puts forth the premise that employees are inherently averse to work and must constantly be motivated from Jan 1, 2021 · This article reviews theories of motivation in the workplace, what these theories look like in the modern workplace, and interventions designed to increase individual and system-wide Feb 17, 2025 · Equity Theory is crucial for understanding how employee perceptions of fairness affect motivation, satisfaction, and productivity. Motivation refers to the inner desire or willingness that propels a person to take action and achieve a specific goal or outcome. Fancy geeking out on more theories and models? Take a look at these other articles we’ve written on employee motivation theory and employee engagement models. Nov 27, 2023 · What is motivation theory? Motivation theory is the study of understanding what drives a person to work towards a particular goal or outcome. Frederick Herzberg is highly recognized for this theory, because not only it is As you read, concentrate on the role of motivation in determining employee performance. 4. Employee motivation is an important task for managers. Instead, there are several theories explaining the concept of motivation. Managers' beliefs about employee motivation can influence their management style. He stated that effort, performance and motivation are linked to a person's motivation. In alignment with self-determination theory (that we described earlier) – when employees can vary their work, finding meaning in it, and do it independently this makes them see their work as more meaningful which then results in increased work motivation, performance, and job satisfaction. 5. Feb 20, 2025 · Enhance "Motivation Factors": Recognize employees' achievements, give them responsibilities, and offer chances for personal growth. Nov 13, 2024 · One lesser-known, but equally effective, management theory is McGregor’s Theory of X and Y. Alternatively, Theory Y managers believe their employees enjoy working for the sake of assuming responsibility. According to the theory, two conditions, which are goal acceptance and Dec 1, 2007 · Herzberg's motivation-hygiene theory is a popular but controversial theory of employee satisfaction. Mar 26, 2025 · Source of motivation Theory X managers believe their employees get their motivation to work from a desire to achieve personal goals, like earning a wage, gaining work experience for their resume or receiving a promotion. Intrinsic motivation centers on the inherent satisfaction and enjoyment derived from engaging in an activity for its own sake, without the need for external rewards. McGregor's Theories of Motivation X & Y The Theory X and Theory Y model is a motivation theory made of two parts developed by Douglas McGregor that offer two very different management styles for more successful people management. The theory posits that to maximize employee motivation, employers must try to guide workers to the upper parts of the hierarchy. Taylor’s Scientific Management was one of the first motivation theories. To enhance performance, the organizational culture and HR strategies must address and fulfill the needs of employees. May 20, 2024 · Theory X uses a more authoritarian style that can demotivate employees and lead to resistance, while Theory Y recognizes staff (when given the proper conditions) as self-motivated. Early motivational theories such as that of Taylor suggested that pay motivated workers to improve production. With remote work gaining center stage in recent years, it is more crucial than ever to look after employees’ mental health. The hard approach to motivation relies on coercion, implicit threats, micromanagement, and tight controls— essentially an environment of command The theory talks about the relationship between motivation and retention, which is called a two-factor theory. This theory implies that an employee’s motivation is influenced not only by the probability of success, but also by Employee motivation is critical for increasing productivity and creating a better working environment. Frederick Herzberg’s dual-factor theory is used by companies across the globe, and understanding how it works can go a long way in Aug 2, 2023 · 3. It consists of four parts: the drive to acquire Feb 8, 2025 · Why Maslow’s Theory Works Video: Improving Motivation with Maslow’s Theory Conclusion Quiz: Applying Maslow’s Theory to the Workplace Scholarly Citations for this Article Motivation in the Workplace Article Series 9 Steps to a Motivated Workforce Employee motivation is an intrinsic and internal drive to put forth the necessary effort and action towards work-related activities. It suggests that people must be made to work. In both cases, managers have plenty of ways to make sure that employees or the motivation to participate in organisational change) or a specific outcome (for example, task performance or innovation). Dec 1, 2011 · We described the theories of motivation like Maslow’s Need Hierarchy, ERG theory, Achievement theory, Cognitive theory, Equity theory, Expectancy theory, Goal setting theory, Behavioral approach Essentially, Theory X assumes that the primary source of employee motivation is monetary, with security as a strong second. Why is Herzberg’s theory of motivation important in business? Herzberg’s theory of motivation gives us insight into how your human resources program doesn’t always motivate employees. Herzberg's Two-factor theory suggests that two influencers determine employee motivation and job satisfaction: hygiene factors and motivators. Process theories of motivation: Equity Theory; Vroom's Expectancy Theory; Taylor's Scientific Management Theory; Bandura's Self Essentially, Theory X assumes that the primary source of employee motivation is monetary, with security as a strong second. ‍ The eight most popular models and theories on employee retention 1. Motivation theory is a way of looking at the motivation of a person and how this influences their behavior, whether for personal or professional reasons. Competence theory Competence motivation is a theory based on the idea that people want to engage in activities that showcase their skills and intelligence. [1] 8. Vroom realised that an employee's performance is based on individual factors such as personality, skills, knowledge, experience and abilities. Hygiene factors, like salary and working conditions, don't motivate but can cause dissatisfaction if inadequate. If an employee successfully achieves a difficult task and receives praise from their colleagues, it can make them feel more competent in a particular area. This research aims to understand the causes of employee turnover and retention strategies in an organization. The hard approach to motivation relies on coercion, implicit threats, micromanagement, and tight controls— essentially an environment of command Jan 17, 2025 · McGregor’s theory suggests two contrasting views on employee motivation. Goals are the foundation for motivation; therefore, behaviour is directed according to the motivation level of individuals. Jan 23, 2025 · Explore the insights of 12 most popular motivation theories - Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs, ERG theory, Herzberg's theory, JCM, Goal Setting theory, and more. But many leaders continue to rely on traditional motivation strategies, such as financial incentives Sep 20, 2019 · Tesco staff can even influence what food goes onto its restaurant menus. Theory X and Theory Y represent two opposing ends of the motivation spectrum. The hard approach to motivation relies on coercion, implicit threats, micromanagement, and tight controls— essentially an environment of command What is a motivation theory? A motivation theory concerns what might inspire a person to pursue and achieve a desired result. Mar 14, 2025 · The theory applies to organizational structures and the motivation of employees. Deci and Ryan’s Self-Determination Theory. Herzberg’s motivation theory suggests that employee motivation comes when two basic needs are met: hygiene and motivators. Options such as job enlargement, job enrichment, promotions, internal and external stipends, monetary, and non-monetary compensation should be considered. Theory X assumes employees are inherently lazy and need to be closely supervised. Nov 16, 2023 · Motivation theories, such as Herzberg's Two-Factor Theory and Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs, highlight the importance of understanding individual human needs, desires, and goals to explain human behavior and drive motivation. Feb 18, 2025 · Flagging motivation can stem from stress, overwork, overwhelm, conflict, and many other causes. Jul 31, 2023 · How to use Herzberg’s Motivation-Hygiene Theory for e mployee motivation analysis? Herzberg’s employee motivation theory, or two-factor theory theorised that employee satisfaction has two dimensions which can influence the levels of motivation in a workplace. The expectancy-value theory postulates that an employee’s motivation depends not only on the expectation that a certain action will lead to a specific result, but also on how much value the employee attaches to this result. , 2017). By investing in the overall happiness of its employees, a business can increase satisfaction while boosting engagement and motivation, which ultimately impacts productivity. What are the factors that drive employee motivation? 1. Salary, for example, only makes employees satisfied but does not motivate them. Maslow’s theory suggests that before striving to increase employee motivation, passion, and engagement, we must ensure that we're meeting their basic needs. Mar 4, 2025 · Motivation is a continuous process and managers use motivation theories to improve productivity, profits, employee retention rates and employee satisfaction levels. Things like praise, an opportunity for progression, and employee-of-the-month-style rewards can help to keep a realistic level of expectation and Google motivational techniques were discussed and compared to traditional motivational ways of motivating employees. Jun 1, 2018 · The proposed framework could be used to warrant further research in the area of employee retention and employee motivation. , & Amoako, G. Hygiene refers to leadership, salary, and workplace relations. He uses the variables Expectancy, Instrumentality and Valence to account for this. Google was named the 2014 “Best Company to Work For” by the Great Place to Work Institute and Fortune Magazine. ments in the field of human motivation and a plethora of theories including, but not limited to, McGregor’s Theory X and Y (1960) and Vroom’s Expectancy Theory (1964) that attempted to unfold the mys-teries behind motivation and its impact on human behavior in the workplace. Mar 28, 2025 · Here are five motivational theories and several motivating factors you can consider using to increase employee motivation, employee satisfaction and productivity: 1. One of the most prominent theories regarding motivation factors in the workplace is Herzberg’s two-factor theory. The organization topped the list for the fifth time. Similar to Maslow’s Pyramid, these two authors suggest that employee motivation is influenced by the satisfaction of three basic psychological needs: Feb 23, 2025 · What are Needs-Based Theories of Motivation? Needs-based theories concern how individuals are motivated to take actions that meet their internal needs. Application of Frederick Herzberg’s two- factor theory in assessing and understanding employee motivation at work: A Ghanaian perspective. We will discuss motivation theories under two categories: need-based theories and process theories. True, in its short lifespan, Google has acquired for itself a huge and bright workforce (over 50,000 employees Jun 19, 2023 · Herzberg’s Two-Factor Theory. May 12, 2021 · Essentially, Theory X assumes that the primary source of employee motivation is monetary, with security as a strong second. Taylor’s Motivation Theory – Scientific Management. Jan 28, 2025 · Motivation and job satisfaction Employers with low engagement rates often have higher turnover rates, as well as issues with low morale and unhappy employees. EXPECTANCY-VALENCE THEORY Expectancy-valence theory is a theory focused on motivation based upon the choices an individual makes when striving for a goal. Oct 4, 2022 · There are multiple employee engagement theories and models to choose from, so we will share some popular models so you can decide which is most aligned with your business and its goals. Setting achievable goals, and providing rewards that employees would want and use, is a good way of creating motivation through this theory. What are the Employee Engagement Theories and Models? Each employee engagement theory and employee engagement model are comprised of the same main elements, namely: 1. In the year 1959, psychologist Frederick Herzberg proposed a theory that distinguishes between two types of factors that impact employee motivation: Hygiene factors are aspects of the workplace which, when absent, can contribute to discontent among employees. Herzberg’s Two-factor Theory. It was developed by Elton Mayo and his colleagues at the Western Electric Hawthorne Works in Chicago during the 1920s and 1930s. Motivation: New directions for theory, research, and Jan 27, 2025 · Also known as dual-factor theory or Herzberg’s motivation-hygiene theory. Mitchell, T. They should be holistic, for example by focusing on employee motivation and wellbeing, and helping employees understand their contribution to the organisation’s purpose, objectives and culture. Dec 5, 2021 · Herzberg’s two-factor theory. SDT delineates the social-contextual factors, including leaders’ interpersonal style, that predict high quality motivation in the workplace (Deci et al. 1 Maslow’s hierarchy of needs attempts to explain human psychological and social development through a series of progressive needs and desires that, once fulfilled, motivate the individual to develop the desire to pursue, then satisfy Oct 5, 2020 · Herzberg's Motivation Theory. Expectancy theory of motivation Apr 1, 2024 · Intrinsic motivation theory and extrinsic motivation theory represent two distinct approaches to understanding the driving forces behind human behavior. These two factors are: motivation and hygiene. Motivation is the key to more profitable employees, as a motivated employee is more productive. Dec 14, 2020 · Self-determination theory (SDT) (Ryan and Deci, 2019) is a prominent theory of motivation that offers leaders an evidence-based framework for how to effectively motivate workers. , 1959; Herzberg, 1965). Think back to our discussion on equity theory. K. . By addressing both the hygiene factors and motivators, leaders can create a balanced and fulfilling work environment that promotes high performance and job satisfaction. How are fairness perceptions determined, and what are the consequences of these perceptions? You will also read about motivational theories and how you can use these theories to improve motivation in your workplace. Conclusion. That’s because a motivated employee is more productive, and a more productive employee is more profitable. An empathetic approach that encourages employees to reflect on their own motivation through constructive conversations may be more effective at getting a struggling employee back on track than using the proverbial carrot or stick. employee drives and motivation, organizational performance is maximized. For example, a company that falls in the 50th percentile on employee motivation improves only to the 56th by boosting performance on one drive, but way up to the 88th percentile by doing better on Jul 8, 2024 · Successful employee engagement strategies will make use of a range of good people management and learning and development practices. Motivation can be intrinsic, coming from within a person (values, beliefs etc) Motivation can be extrinsic, coming from external factors (rewards or punishments) environment where employees feel valued, generally through increased communication and being asked for their opinions. That means that the employer should help employees satisfy lower-order needs like safety and security and social needs. The hard approach to motivation relies on coercion, implicit threats, micromanagement, and tight controls— essentially an environment of command Jul 11, 2024 · Herzberg’s motivation-hygiene theory is valuable for organizations as it helps identify the factors that influence employee motivation. Jan 5, 2024 · McGregor’s Theory X and Theory Y McGregor proposed two contrasting views on human motivation and management: Theory X assumes people inherently dislike work and need strict supervision; While Theory Y believes individuals are self-motivated and seek responsibility. Intrinsic motivation is described as engaging in an activity for May 26, 2024 · If you’re looking to improve productivity in the workplace, you might already be using or considering performance review software to support your efforts. Thus, ‘work motivation’ refers to the need or reason(s) why Mar 4, 2025 · 4. It is a recategorized version of the hierarchy that describes simpler and broader categories. It suggests that individuals have two categories of needs when it comes to work – Hygiene and Motivators. Maslow’s hierarchy of needs (people management) Retention driver: Satisfying human needs ‍ Nov 9, 2024 · Furthermore, this theory describes the relationship between effort, productivity, and motivation as the theory states that valence, expectancy and instrumentality each have a separate influence on motivation, but if considered together will have a remarkable effect and produce a motivation force that affects behavior. Motivators, like achievement, recognition, and growth, can create satisfaction and enhance motivation when present. (2011). Its purpose is to predict human behavior as theory suggests that individuals will be motivated to put in more effort if they believe that their efforts will lead to better performance and that better performance will result in greater rewards or outcomes. Hygiene factors do not necessarily lead to job satisfaction, but their absence can cause dissatisfaction, which decreases motivation, e. 6 days ago · Expectancy Theory posits that motivation is driven by the belief that effort will lead to desired performance & outcomes. Frederick Herzberg’s (1959) two-factor theory of motivation, also known as dual-factor theory or motivation-hygiene theory, was a result of a study that analyzed responses of 200 accountants and engineers who were asked about their positive and negative feelings about their work. What are the main employee engagement theories? William Kahn penned the most popular theory of employee engagement in his 1990 work “Psychological Conditions of Personal Engagement and Disengagement at Work. Maslow's triangle Figure: 2 Herzberg's Job Design model. Aug 30, 2024 · Various Scientific Theories Behind Employee Motivation. The hard approach to motivation relies on coercion, implicit threats, micromanagement, and tight controls— essentially an environment of command Mar 21, 2025 · Herzberg's Two-Factor Theory proposes that two sets of factors influence job satisfaction: hygiene factors and motivators. Essentially, Theory X assumes that the primary source of employee motivation is monetary, with security as a strong second. A Theory about how employees behave. Sep 19, 2023 · The Mayo motivation theory, also known as the Hawthorne effect, is a psychological concept that explores the relationship between productivity and employee motivation within the workplace. When Frederick Herzberg researched the sources of employee motivation during the 1950s and 1960s, he discovered a dichotomy that stills intrigues (and baffles) managers: The things that make Jun 7, 2021 · Part of the job of any employer is making sure employee satisfaction is high in order to retain high-quality workers and increase productivity. In turn this enhances their knowledge, skills and their sense of job satisfaction. (1982). This was done in order to pinpoint the secret to Google’s success at Mar 6, 2024 · Herzberg’s model focuses on two dimensions of employee satisfaction: motivation and hygiene. Apr 10, 2024 · The four-drive theory of motivation was developed by Paul Lawrence and Nitin Nohria in their 2002 book Driven: How Human Nature Shapes Our Choices. Providing meaningful work can greatly improve job satisfaction and employee motivation. However, the theory mentioned that the importance of these classes varies for different employees. The objective of this conceptual paper is two-fold: (1) to articulate the progress made on understanding employee motivation and organizational performance, and (2) to sug-gest how the theory concerning employee motivation and organizational performance may be advanced by Employee motivation is a factor, or factors, that induce(s) an employee to purse work-related tasks or goals. These are not defined in the traditional sense, in which one may be satisfied or dissatisfied with a job, but Psychologist Abraham Maslow first introduced his concept of a hierarchy of needs in his 1943 paper, A Theory of Human Motivation and his subsequent book, Motivation and Personality. The objective of a motivation theory is to discover what factors drive individuals to work towards a goal or an outcome. Taylor’s theory can be broken down into two parts. The theory was at the center of a long debate that focused on conceptual and methodological Jan 21, 2025 · What’s it: Taylor’s motivation theory underscores money as the only way to motivate employees. For example – instead of saying “I want to exercise more”, set a goal like “I will go to the gym 5 times a week for 45 min each day. A workplace that values and regularly boosts its staff morale is bound to have better productivity rates than those that don't. jyng jubwpq cdyoxxh gpy vhde loff daaukpm shz rkess lahpf aozyds fwj duqswp ztrwv lgyc