Interpreting the human psyche is a difficult undertaking. Determining what encourages and drives people to achieve their objectives isn’t easy to figure out for Leaders and Human Capital experts. This is where research and insights gathered from the various Theories of Motivation comes to play.
As global research suggests, the importance of understanding the Theories of Motivation further amplifies that that only a fraction of employees feel engaged in their respective organizations.
We present below an overview of the 6 Theories of Motivation, as pioneered by various renowned psychologists over the years, based on empirical research and observations. These Motivation Theories apply to a wide, diverse range of personalities and mindsets. They are:
1. Equity Theory – People equate themselves to their colleagues and try to ascertain whether or not they are being treated fairly. Their responses, actions, and behaviors are altered in accordance with the way they are treated.
2. Two Factor Theory – Two Factor Theory suggests that elements such as achievement, recognition, meaningful work, responsibility and growth motivate people; whereas elements such as politics, bureaucratic setup, and working conditions influence employees’ motivation levels negatively.
3. Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs Theory – This theory stipulates that by satisfying the 5 levels of human needs, people can be motivated. The 5 levels of needs are physiological (food, shelter, clothing), safety (employment, health), social (friendship), esteem (recognition, freedom), and self-actualization (personal growth).
4. Expectancy Theory – Per this theory, employee motivation is proportional to individuals’ expectations that their efforts will create specific, valuable results.
5. Goal Setting Theory – This theory espouses that clearly defined, challenging goals inspire people to deliver better performance—as they tend to work harder to achieve them—than vague, easily-achievable goals.
6. Three Needs Theory – The Three Needs Theory renders key findings concerning human personalities that facilitate in influencing and leading people successfully. The 3 needs are achievement, affiliation, and power.
