2.2 Motivation – Human Needs
Motivation is the spark that drives people to act. In business, understanding human needs helps managers create workplaces where employees feel satisfied, productive and loyal. Below we explore the main theories and show how these needs can be met (or missed) at work.
Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs
Maslow imagined needs as a pyramid, from basic survival at the bottom to self‑actualisation at the top. Think of it as a ladder you climb while working.
- 🛏️ Physiological – food, water, rest.
- 🛡️ Safety – job security, safe working conditions.
- 🤝 Love & Belonging – teamwork, friendly culture.
- 🏆 Esteem – recognition, promotions.
- 🚀 Self‑Actualisation – creative projects, personal growth.
Herzberg’s Two‑Factor Theory
Herzberg split workplace factors into Hygiene (must‑have) and Motivators (spark joy).
- 🧼 Hygiene Factors – salary, safety, company policies.
- 💡 Motivators – achievement, recognition, meaningful work.
Missing hygiene factors cause dissatisfaction; lacking motivators leads to boredom.
Self‑Determination Theory (SDT)
SDT says people thrive when three basic psychological needs are satisfied:
- 🗺️ Autonomy – freedom to choose how to do tasks.
- 🛠️ Competence – feeling capable and improving skills.
- 🤗 Relatedness – connection with colleagues.
How Needs Are Met (or Not) at Work
Below are common workplace scenarios and how they influence each need.
- 💼 Clear Job Descriptions – satisfy autonomy and competence by showing employees what they can control.
- 💰 Fair Pay & Benefits – address physiological and safety needs.
- 🤝 Team Building Activities – strengthen belonging and relatedness.
- ???
Recognition Programs – boost esteem and motivation.
- 🚀 Innovation Projects – provide opportunities for self‑actualisation.
Practical Workplace Scenarios
| Scenario | Needs Addressed | Potential Outcome |
|---|
| Flexible working hours | Physiological, Autonomy, Relatedness | Higher job satisfaction, lower absenteeism |
| Annual performance reviews | Esteem, Competence, Motivation | Clear growth path, increased engagement |
| Mandatory overtime without pay | Physiological, Safety, Autonomy | Dissatisfaction, higher turnover |
Key Takeaways
- Motivation is linked to how well an organisation meets basic human needs.
- Different theories highlight different aspects: Maslow focuses on hierarchy, Herzberg on hygiene vs. motivators, SDT on psychological fulfilment.
- Managers can design policies that satisfy multiple needs simultaneously.
- When needs are unmet, employees may feel disengaged, stressed or leave the company.
Quick Quiz
- Which need is at the top of Maslow’s pyramid? Answer: Self‑Actualisation
- What are the two types of factors in Herzberg’s theory? Answer: Hygiene and Motivators
- Which SDT need is satisfied by giving employees choice over tasks? Answer: Autonomy
- Give an example of a workplace practice that could improve the belonging need.