I feel that Alderfer’s ERG theory is my most relevant content theory on motivation.
Valued based management (2009) suggests that a lack of higher level needs may cause a regression to lower level needs, which appear easier to satisfy. This applies to me, as I am bored by a lack of new challenges, for example when you’ve pulled one pint successfully, you can pull a million the same way. Therefore, I will find new pastimes, such as cleaning duties, to keep myself busy.
Alderfer’s ERG theory explains the importance of growth needs. It understands that people will work harder to gain opportunities which are attractive to them.
What Is My Motivation For Starting Business Management?
I have growth needs, and prefer to work in a close group environment. In any job I have done before, there have been no growth opportunities. My desire to achieve a degree can be explain using this basic perspective on motivation diagram:
In the near future there will be a NEED for me to become a reliable bread winner. Therefore, I’m DRIVEN (my behaviour) to gain the skills that I will need to get a job that will make enough money to support myself and my family.
I know that a SATISFACTORY job will be one where I can work with a team and gain high status; therefore a management course is desirable.
When Have I Felt De-motivated?
In my current job I have mastered everything there is to learn. According to Business balls (1995-2009) the Maslow hierarchy of needs suggests that self actualisation is the highest form of motivation. In my case, there is nothing to climb, and no new things to achieve. Therefore there is little motivation.
I have actually kept motivated by aspects from Herzberg’s Two Factor Theory. Tutor 2 u (2009) explains that I stay satisfied with my job due to hygiene factors, such as my relationship with my employers and team. It also suggests that my main motivational factor is gaining recognition of my high experience level. I get this recognition through requests to show new staff basic routines.
In employment future, if I were to apply to larger businesses, such as Marks and Spencer or John Lewis, climbing would be possible possible.
To Conclude,
I have found that I require the option of new opportunities. Without them, I find it difficult to feel that what I am doing has a purpose. It is the purpose that motivates me in what I do.
Reference list:
Valued based management (2009) EGR theory [online]. Available from: http://www.valuebasedmanagement.net/methods_alderfer_erg_theory.html [Accessed 13 October 2009].
Theories of motivation (2009) Overview [online]. Available from: http://www.analytictech.com/mb021/motivation.htm [Accessed 13 October 2009]
Business balls (1995-2009) Maslow's hierarchy of needs [online]. Available from: http://www.businessballs.com/maslow.htm [Accessed 13 October 2009]
Tutor 2 u (2009) Herzberg two factor theory [online]. Available from: http://tutor2u.net/business/people/motivation_theory_herzberg.asp [Accessed 13 October 2009]
