Business – 2.2 Motivation – Human needs | e-Consult
2.2 Motivation – Human needs (1 questions)
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Herzberg distinguishes between:
- Motivators (intrinsic) – factors that create satisfaction when present, such as achievement, recognition and personal growth.
- Hygiene factors (extrinsic) – conditions that prevent dissatisfaction, such as salary, company policies and working conditions.
Illustration:
- Motivator – Career development opportunities: When employees receive training that leads to promotion, they experience increased self‑esteem and fulfilment of self‑actualisation needs. However, if the same training is offered without clear pathways for advancement, it can become a source of frustration, failing to satisfy higher‑order needs.
- Hygiene factor – Salary: A competitive salary removes financial anxiety (a safety need) and allows employees to focus on higher‑order goals. Conversely, if pay is perceived as unfair, it creates dissatisfaction that overshadows any motivators present.
Thus, both motivators and hygiene factors can either support or undermine the satisfaction of higher‑order needs depending on how they are implemented.