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.