Employee Motivation

 Introduction

The field of study known as motivation theory focuses on identifying what drives an individual. Stated differently, this idea pertains to the investigation of motivating factors behind an individual's pursuit of a specific objective or result. This approach is very significant when attempting to comprehend workplace motivation. For instance, a person's motivations may begin with fundamental biological needs like sustenance and shelter and then advance to higher wants like fulfillment or self-actualization. According to Gary Latham (2011) “Motivation is what provides the stimuli and direction towards which employees can execute their duties’’

 

Figure 1, Source: Fellow.app

Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs 

Maslow's hierarchy of needs is a psychological theory of motivation that consists of a five-tier model of human needs that is frequently represented as levels within a pyramid. Prior to addressing needs higher up in the hierarchy, people must attend to needs lower down.

 

Figure 2, Source: Product Plan https://www.productplan.com/blog/product-design-maslows-hierarchy-of-needs/

Physiological needs

The base of the pyramid is made up of physiological demands, which comprise the necessities for survival such as food, water, shelter, and sleep. Before one may succeed in their job, one's physiological needs in the workplace must be satisfied.

Safety needs

Maslow's theory suggests that an individual will seek safety and security once their physiological demands have been satisfied. This involves having a stable environment, financial stability, physical protection from harm, and a sense of security. In the context of the workplace, this could include having a steady employment that pays well and having a clean workspace.

Love and belongingness

Maslow's hierarchy of requirements indicates that a person would start looking for connections and social connection once their demands for safety have been satisfied. This encompasses the need for affection, bonds, companionship, and establishing a feeling of acceptance in a group. In the office, this could take the shape of making new acquaintances, getting drinks with coworkers after work, or joining a social committee.

Esteem

An individual will start to pursue esteem after the aforementioned demands have been satisfied. This may entail pursuing status, respect, recognition, and a positive self-image. at work. this could take the form of recognition, a raise, or a new title.

Self-actualization

Attaining self-actualization necessitates fulfilling every demand in the hierarchy of needs, as it represents the pinnacle of the hierarchy. At this point, a person is looking for self-actualization, personal development, and self-fulfillment. 

Figure 3, Source :https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L0PKWTta7lU

Why is employee motivation important in the workplace?

Consider a worker who is not very motivated at work. They're more likely avoiding chores, working more slowly, and using their phones more frequently. Above all, though, they lack concentration and are not giving their work their all.

In addition to being a waste of your resources, this might also negatively impact other staff members, which could prevent the business as a whole from achieving key goals or generating work of the best caliber. A motivated worker, on the other hand, is enthused, focused, and proud of their job. They move swiftly, take initiative, and want to do a good job for the organization as well as for themselves. Employee motivation is crucial regardless of how successful your business is or is just getting started.

How to improve employee motivation in the workplace

• Lead with vision
• Make sure everyone understands the ‘why’
• Set frequent clear targets
• Recognize and reward great work
• Give your team autonomy
• Create a welcoming workplace environment
• Encourage teamwork
• Support staff motivation by supporting employee wellbeing rate a career path

What are the benefits of staff motivation ?

• Higher productivity levels
• More innovation
• Lower levels of absenteeism
• Lower levels of staff turnover
• Great reputation and stronger recruitment for your organization
• Have a good impact on other employees
• Understand the company’s goals better

How to Improve Employee Motivation?

• Choose the right leaders
• Coach your managers
• Define precise but realistic engagement goals
• Make someone accountable
• Improve internal communications
• Value employees’ work and contribution
• Give structured feedback
• Reward employees
• Build a positive workplace environment
• Implement learning and development programs

How to Measure Employee Motivation

• Performance reviews
• Employee motivation and engagement surveys
• Customer satisfaction surveys

Top Employee Motivation Companies

• Microsoft Corp
• Alphabet Inc.
• Salesforce Inc.
• MasterCard
• Apple
• PepsiCo
• Travel Counsellors Ltd.

 

Conclusion

Motivated workers are more dedicated, innovative, and productive at work, which boosts retention rates and job satisfaction. Conversely, demotivated workers can have a detrimental effect on the company, increasing absenteeism, decreasing productivity, and even increasing turnover.

References

GP Latham · 2011 · Cited by 49 — Goal-setting: A state theory, Latham, G. P. (2011).

Maslow’s hierarchy November 17, 2020 by Lauren Hays https://lucidea.com/blog/understanding-and-applying-maslows-hierarchy-of-needs-in-special-libraries/

Francis, M. (2010). Fulfillment of a higher order: Placing information literacy within Maslow’s hierarchy of needs. College & Research Libraries News, 71(3), 140-159. doi:https://doi.org/10.5860/crln.71.3.8336

AH Maslow · 1943 · Cited by 57137 — Maslow, A. H. (1942). The dynamics of psychological security-insecurity. Character & Personality; A Quarterly for Psychodiagnostic & Allied Studies,