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Frederick Herzberg’s’ theory is also well known. Herzberg claimed that job satisfaction and job enrichment are the 2 greatest motivators in the workplace. He refers to Hygiene factors in the workplace such as company policies, interpersonal relations, company benefits, physical working conditions, relationships with other staff and with management, individual status – to name some.
So in a nutshell what really impacts on motivation?
1. Man’s basic needs!
Survival needs such as warmth, shelter, food, security etc. Satisfaction of these needs is the basis of motivation as indicated by Maslow in his Hierarchy of Needs. Once these are satisfied we move onto more self actualising needs. Self actualisation however is seldom, if ever reached.
| "Man does not live by bread alone except when there is no bread."
- Anon |
2. Values
Understanding and knowing ones values ties directly into understanding and knowing oneself i.e. self awareness. One’s values define one’s destiny. Whether we are aware of this or not we are committed to our values. Once we know these values we become more motivated as our desire is to fulfil and satisfy these values. It is important to remember – see next point – that our values are unique – like fingerprints.
"Just as your car runs more smoothly and requires less energy to go faster and farther
when the wheels are in perfect alignment you perform better when your thoughts, feelings,
emotions, goals and values are in balance."
- Brian Tracy |
3. Individual differences
If one wants to draw out the best in people first and foremost treat each individual as a person. It can be difficult as a manager to spend time with and treat everyone individually however the spinoffs are huge. Taking time to find out what motivates each member of the Team can only lead to positive results for both the manager. the individual and the Team as a whole.
| "Your communication is only as good as your understanding of the person you are communicating with."
- Tony Alessandra |
4. Situational differences
We also need to be aware that situations affect different people differently. Some people are motivated by pressure and crises others are demotivated by the same situation. Added to this, personal situations have an impact too – either a positive or negative. People think and are motivated best when the situation they are in is conducive to a positive thinking environment. This links in to the next point. When we know that...
• we are respected and appreciated
• others show interest in us
• we are engaged in work that expresses our values
• we are comfortable both physically and emotionally
• we have accurate and complete information
• we are not rushing, ill at ease or fearful
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| ....we are most motivated. |
5. Our deeper needs
There are so many variables that affect motivation however certain needs if met serve as powerful motivators. The need for:
• supportive relationships – these are relationships that build and maintain a sense of personal worth and importance
• trust – mutual trust lies at the heart of motivation – when we know we are trusted we will be motivated to do even more
• belonging – we need to have a sense of belonging – knowing that we fit in and are respected and valued for what we contribute
• challenge/variety/initiative – most people seek variety and mundane/ repetitive tasks will without doubt impact on motivation. Using one’s initiative and knowing our ideas are heard, even if not implemented, motivate
• fairness – "Be fair. Be firm, decisive and even tough when necessary – but be fair at all times." Sir Michael Edwardes
• feedback, recognition and progress – give people credit for what they have done well. Give them constructive criticism for what they need to learn. We are all motivated by growth and if feedback leads to progress we welcome it. In fact no feedback leads to no motivation.
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"If you treat people as they are, they will stay as they are but if you treat them as they ought to be they will become bigger and better persons." -
Goethe |
It is also important to remember that some people are more motivated and do have a higher level of self-efficacy.
If you are wanting a motivated Team then look for motivated people. Those who show and reveal energy, commitment, staying power, focus, accountability and enthusiasm.
For those reading this and who want to become more motivated look for an environment that will provide you with what you believe is best for you. It is fact that you will never burn out if you find a job you love. Furthermore how wonderful to wake up every morning motivated and fired up to enjoy another awesome, challenging day!
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