Motivation

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What is Motivation?

“Motivation is an inner psychological force that can only be inferred and derived from the individual’s behavior. This psychological force can be provoked out of various needs and wants or through subtle external forces and techniques by other people. Motivation is a process that induces an individual to satisfy his needs and wants – in accordance with his personality and traits.”

Dale Breachus defined motivation as:“Motivation can be defined as a willingness to expand energy to achieve a goal or reward.” — Dale Breachus

Motivation is derived from the Latin word ‘movere’ which means ‘to move’ or ‘to energize’ or ‘to activate’.

Importance of Motivation

Motivated employees are required

It helps organization to survive

Motivated employees are more productive

High performance

Low employee turnover and absenteeism

Better organizational Image

Better industrial relations

Acceptability to change

Better quality orientation

Better productivity

In order to get motivated, there has to be an unsatisfied need or want. This unsatisfied need creates tension in an individual, which as a result, stimulates a drive. Because of that stimulated drive, the individual is then compelled to take an action to satisfy his needs. If the action is completed successfully, the need or want is satisfied. This means that the goal of that individual is now achieved, and therefore, the motivation process is also completed.

Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs

Physiological

Safety and Security

Social or Belongingness

Esteem / Ego

Self-Actualization

According to him, needs at the lower levels of the hierarchy dominate an individual’s motiv-ation as they are unsatisfied. Once, these are adequately satisfied, however, the higher needs occupy the individual’s attention and efforts. 

Morale-Building Factors

Interesting Work

Full appreciation of work done

Involvement

Good pay

Job security

Promotion and growth

Good working conditions

Loyalty to employees

Help with personal problems

Tactful discipline

Autonomy

Status

Responsibility

Flexible Scheduling

Benefits

How to Motivate Workers in Tough Times

Keep your door open. Employees may need frequent assurances. Give them access to your time and be honest with them. Don’t be evasive or promise anything you can’t fulfill. Be candid but also let them know there are things you can’t discuss.

Praise and recognize hard work. There are plenty of simple but effective ways employers can recognize hard work, including emailing an appreciative note. Encourage other employees to follow your lead. Organize recognition events to honor bigger accomplishments at luncheons, banquets or company picnics.

Don’t bear down on employees because you’re stressed out. Ordering employees around like a drill sergeant is counterproductive. Offer direction while allowing employees to come up with their own processes.

Praise and recognize hard work. There are plenty of simple but effective ways employers can recognize hard work, including emailing an appreciative note. Encourage other employees to follow your lead. Organize recognition events to honor bigger accomplishments at luncheons, banquets or company picnics.

Help employees fulfill career goals. Sit down and find out what employees want to get out of their jobs and the company in general. If the employee wants to take on more responsibility or move into a different department, investigate the possibilities and get back to them with options. Offer clear paths each time. If advancement requires a degree, tell them about tuition assistance or scholarships the company may offer.

Move dissatisfied employees. Some employees can’t be motivated and their discontent can draw a disproportionate amount of time and energy away from managers. They can also bring down the morale of an entire unit. Ask how you can help improve their work experience. Offer to move them into another work area, a different department or even a different company.

How to Motivate Workers in Tough Times

Plug leaks. Intercept rumors immediately since they can grow into unsubstantiated concerns that can lower productivity.

Plan ahead. Set long term goals with employees to show they have a future role with the company.

Get out of the office. Many companies sponsor community service days that allow employees to get out of the office to do something that makes them feel good. Churches and charities can help find suitable service projects.

Keep your own worries to yourself. As a manager, you have two difficult jobs: empathize with employees and deal with your own stress. It’s important to keep your feelings private since your own apprehension can panic employees.

How to Motivate Workers in Tough Times