Motivation

Definition of Motivation

  • Motivation refers to the drive or energy that compels individuals to act in certain ways to achieve set goals.
  • It indicates the internal or external factors that stimulate enthusiasm and commitment to undertake a task.

Theories of Motivation

Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs

  • Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs is a theory that categorises human needs into five levels: physiological needs, safety, belonging, esteem, and self-actualisation.
  • The theory suggests that individuals are motivated to fulfill their basic needs before moving on to higher-level needs.

Herzberg’s Two-Factor Theory

  • Herzberg’s Two-Factor Theory separates the factors that motivate employees into two types: hygiene factors (e.g. salary, working conditions) and motivators (e.g. job satisfaction, achievement).
  • This theory posits that improving hygiene factors can prevent employee dissatisfaction, but only motivators can increase satisfaction and motivation.

Techniques of Motivation

Financial Motivators

  • Financial motivators are monetary rewards used to motivate employees. They can include salary, bonuses, profit-sharing schemes, and more.
  • Financial incentives can increase motivation in the short term, but may not be as effective for long-term motivation.

Non-Financial Motivators

  • Non-financial motivators involve non-monetary rewards or recognitions like praise, responsibility, flexibility, and job security.
  • These motivators can lead to long-term satisfaction and increased motivation, particularly when aligned with employees’ personal goals or values.

Benefits of Motivation

Increased Productivity

  • Motivated employees are more likely to be productive, contributing more effectively to the organisation’s goals.

Employee Retention

  • High levels of motivation can lead to increased employee retention, reducing the costs associated with high staff turnover.

Enhanced Work Culture

  • Motivated employees can contribute to a positive work culture, leading to an overall better working environment.

Potential Drawbacks of Motivation Techniques

Increased Costs

  • Some motivation techniques, particularly financial motivators, can significantly increase an organisation’s costs.

Inequity

  • If motivation techniques (especially rewards or incentives) are not distributed fairly, they can lead to feelings of inequity among employees.

Best Practices in Motivating Employees

Understanding Employee Needs

  • Since employee needs and motivations can vary, it is important to understand these needs and tailor motivation techniques accordingly.

Regular Feedback

  • Regularly giving feedback to employees can increase motivation by letting them know where they stand and recognising their accomplishments.

Valuing Employee Contributions

  • Recognising and appreciating employees’ contributions can foster feelings of self-worth and further motivate employees.

Developing a Reward System

  • Developing a reward system - financial and/or non-financial – that recognises employees’ efforts and achievements.