The theories of motivation - goal setting theory (Locke and Latham)

Question 1

what is goal setting theory (Locke and Latham)?

Answer 1

the theory that employees are motivated by clear goals and appropriate feedback regarding their achievement.
working towarda a goal provides motivation and will therefore improve performance.

Question 2

what is the goal setting principles?

Answer 2

there are 5 principles when goal setting
- clarity,
- task complexity
- challenge
- feedback
- commitment

Question 3

what is the goal setting principle: clarity?

Answer 3

• simple, clear and specific, important that everyone understands what is expected.

Question 4

what is the goal setting principle: challenge?

Answer 4

• an opportunity to complete a task highly valued by management, it can motivate the employee
• it should extend the employee but still be achieved

Question 5

what is the goal setting principle: commitment

Answer 5

• the greater the input from the employee the more commitment they will put in it

Question 6

what are the advantages of Locke and Latham’s theory?

Answer 6

• very focused and individual specific approch
• improves trust and relationships between employees and managers
• easy to assess whether goal has been achieved

Question 7

what are the disadvantages of Locke and Latham’s theory?

Answer 7

• could be time consuming to individually set goals and provide feedback in a large business
• hard to align business and personal goals