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Employee Motivation Theory - Explained

Written by Jason Gordon

Updated at January 10th, 2021

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What is Employee Motivation?

Motivation is any tangible or intangible force that causes another person to want or feel the need to pursue an activity. A motivated individual is inspired to pursue a course of action. Three commonly recognized elements of motivation include:

  • Energy
  • Direction
  • Persistence

Collectively motivation, ability, and environment are the major influences over employee performance. Motivation is broken down into Needs-Based Theories and Process-Based Theories. 

Back To: LEADERSHIP

What are Needs-Based Theories of Motivation?

Needs-based theories concern how individuals are motivated to take actions that meet their internal needs. Some of the dominant needs-based theories are:

  • Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs
  • ERG Theory
  • McGregor's Theory X and Theory Y
  • Herzberg's Two-Factor Theory
  • McClelland's Needs Theory

What are Process-Based Theories of Motivation?

Process-based theories focus on the mental processes of individuals to understand their motivations.

  • Goal-Setting Theory
  • Reinforcement Theory
  • Equity Theory
  • Expectancy Theory

Issues in Motivation

Despite the advances in motivation study, there are numerous difficulties associated with applying theories based on numerous barriers:

  • Geographical borders
  • Motivating Unique Groups
  • Diverse Workforces (Professionals, Contingent Workers, Low-Skilled Minimum Wage Employees)

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