Apply the theories and get the Importance of motivation in the workplace

22 Feb Apply the theories and get the Importance of motivation in the workplace

Work is one of the fundamental components of our life since the working day takes up a large part of our time. If we add the hours of sleep and those of free time, we will realize that we have occupied a large part of our existence. Finding the right motivation to work is therefore extremely important if you want to lead a happier life. The three fundamental theories for finding work motivation below have dealt with studying this very important topic.

Work is not only the means we have to guarantee a stable economic situation, which allows us to survive, but it is closely linked to the dissatisfaction or satisfaction we feel on a personal level. For this reason, it is of fundamental importance to appreciate the work we do, to keep personal motivation high as well.

Motivation brings benefits in terms of well-being for those who carry out a job and is also a guarantee of results for the company. If you want to experience the benefits too, below you will find three theories on work motivation developed by the experts to help you achieve this goal.

What is work motivation?

First, let’s clarify what is meant by work motivation and then go into the merits of the strategies to improve it. Motivation concerns that impulse, or inner strength, which leads us to voluntarily carry out our duties, using our physical and mental resources without reserve to achieve the set goals.

The more this impulse is greater, the more likely it is – even though there are other variables at stake. The tasks for which the person is responsible in the context of their work performance are carried out in the best possible way. In many cases, this increases productivity and competitiveness and improves individual well-being, increasing self-esteem, confidence, and the feeling of self-fulfillment.

Theories for increasing work motivation

1. Adams’ theory of equity

This theory has great relevance in the context we are dealing with. His main hypothesis is the following: the motivation to work is based on how the employee evaluates the task he performs, on the remuneration he receives in return, and on the comparison of this with what is received by the rest of the workers.

Depending on the results that emerge from this comparison, the person will be more or less motivated, thus influencing their actions. The higher the compensation, the greater the employee involvement. However, with lower pay, he will feel less valued and less involved, to the point of deciding to quit the job.

In summary, motivation comes from fair treatment and satisfaction with what has been achieved in exchange for the work done. This is why it is vital for a company to properly evaluate its employees.

“Choose a job you love, and you won’t have to work a day in your life.”

–Confucius–

2. Herzberg’s theory of motivation and hygiene

The author stresses the need to evaluate what people consider satisfactory in the workplace and what they want. In this way, it is possible to identify the elements that cause dissatisfaction or turn work into an unsatisfactory activity.

To distinguish them, “hygienic” factors are all those that make work satisfactory but are not necessarily motivating. We are talking about: salary, interpersonal relationships, economic stability, supervision by superiors, etc.

In the same way, the motivational factors proper are separated and they include promotions, recognition, responsibility, personal fulfillment, social position, professional growth, and so on. That is to say, those make you really satisfied and, consequently, motivated.

3. McClelland’s Theory of Learned Needs

It is one of the best-known theories regarding work motivation. To develop it, the author drew on the comparison of some managers who worked in different companies, arriving at the conclusion that different needs must be met to feel motivated.

These are mainly: the need to obtain results, which improves the efficiency and performance of the worker who seeks satisfaction in his own achievement; the balance between power and recognition and between challenge and success; the need to belong to the group and to have contact with others.

Those presented three fundamental theories on motivation to work. By knowing and applying them, one can easily improve the effectiveness and productivity of an organization.

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