Principles of Management – Forum – Motivation

Motivation 100-300 words

This chapter is full of motivational theories and strategies. Each has its merits. In this forum let’s discuss them. Here are some things to ponder, please do not discuss them all–pick one aspect and do it justice.

Money is a great motivator, but if you don’t have a lot of money can you still motivate your employees?
If you work somewhere that has a great reward system, tell us about it.
Herzberg’s two factor theory: Does it make sense that the things that lead to satisfaction (or motivation) are different than the things that lead to dissatisfaction? Can you provide an example?
Reinforcement theory:
Positive reinforcement: Why is it the best way to get the behaviors you want to see in the workplace. Can it ever backfire?
Avoidance: When is this appropriate?
Extinction: When is this appropriate?
Punishment:When is this appropriate?
Equity theory: Have you ever compared your inputs and rewards to a coworker’s and felt under rewarded. How did you react?
Goal Setting Theory: Consider this scenario – Gloria manages a diverse group of employees. She is fairly new to this position and wants to impress her boss by increasing productivity. She believes deeply in goal-setting theory and decides to set new, higher goals for all her subordinates. During employee performance appraisals, Gloria tells her employees what their goals will be for the next year. She doesn’t follow-up with her employees on their goals until the following year when it’s time for their review. In preparation for the review, she notices no real change in productivity. Why do you think Gloria’s goal setting failed and what suggestions would you make to her?
Any theory or strategy from this chapter is an option for discussion.