Motivation Theory – Satisfying a Need
Motivation in the workplace means different things to managers and to employees.
Basically, motivation stems from a desire to satisfy a need. Understanding the motivation theory, the hierarchy of needs, helps management with the business
and the employees.
This is based on Abraham Maslow’s motivation theory that says that individuals are motivated to satisfy a number of
of needs in a hierarchy and people move from the basic needs to a higher level needs only after the basic one is
satisfied. Until the need is satisfied, other needs have little effect on an individual’s behaviour.
In other words, we satisfy the most prepotent needs first and then progress to the less pressing ones.
As one need becomes satisfied, that need becomes less important; other needs loom up and become motivators of our behavior.
Maslow’s Needs Hierarchy is :
1. Physical - such as food, clothing and shelter.
2. Security – which is the feeling a safety, and the assurance of continued satisfaction of physical needs.
3. Social – this is the feeling of belonging, love, affection. It could be expressed in belonging to the
organization or the immediate work group. Have affiliation of some sort, be a part of something.
4. Safety – the need to have physical safety and psychological security, the desire for self esteem and the esteem of others. This is done
through increasing competence and development programs. Expressed through recognition, titles, offices, awards.
5. Self Actualization – Self fulfillment. Reaching maximum potential. Management should socus on continuous growth.
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For more pages on Motivation in the workplace, see the following pages:
Go to Behavior Towards Goals Page
Motivational Quotes and Truisms by Laurence Peter