2.2 Motivational Theories

Question 1

Maslow’s Hierarchy Of Needs

Answer 1

self actualisation: creative/interesting jobs, opportunities for advancement
esteem: responsibility, recognition, promotion
social: teamwork, supportive management, involvement in decision making
safety: safe working conditions, job security
physiological: satisfactory pay for survival

strengths: allows management to develop understanding of individual needs, theory is fairy easy to understand
weaknesses: managers may struggle to identify which stage individuals are at, theory is very simplistic

Question 2

Locke + Latham Goal Setting Theory

Answer 2

Locke concluded that employees were motivated by clear goals and appropriate feedback, locke found that in order to motivate employees, goals must be clear, specific and provide a challenge

clarity: goals should be simple, clear and as specific as possible, important that expectations are understood
challenge: goals should extend the employee but still be achievable, goals beyond capabilities could result in failure
commitment: employees should show commitment, employees who contribute to development of their own goals are more likely to achieve objectives
feedback: provides opportunities to offer recognition for achieved progress, to make adjustments to goals of necessary and to ensure expectations are clear
task complexity: the task set to achieve the goal should be straight forward enough that employees feel it is able to be fulfilling

Question 3

Lawrence + Nohria Four Drive Theory

Answer 3

DRIVE TO…
acquire: includes desire to own material goods, encompasses desire for status, power, influence
bond: includes the strong need to form relationships with other individuals/groups
learn: desire to satisfy our curiosity to learn new skills and explore the world around us
defend: desire to remove threats to our safety and security and to protect what we regard as ‘ours’