Herzberg’s motivation theory, also known as the two-factor or motivator-hygiene theory, was developed by Frederick Herzberg, an American psychologist, in the 1950s.
This theory attempts to explain the factors influencing employee satisfaction and motivation in the workplace.
According to Herzberg, two sets of factors impact motivation and job satisfaction: motivator factors and hygiene factors.
1. Motivator Factors: These factors are related to the content of the work itself and directly impact an individual’s motivation and satisfaction when present. They include:
a. Achievement: The feeling of accomplishment and progress in one’s work.
b. Recognition: Being appreciated and acknowledged for one’s efforts and achievements.
c. Responsibility: Having a sense of ownership and control over one’s work.
d. Advancement: Opportunities for growth, promotion, and career development.
e. Personal growth: The chance to learn, acquire new skills, and develop professionally.
Herzberg argued that these factors are intrinsic to the job and contribute to long-term motivation and satisfaction.
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Employees who experience these motivator factors tend to be more engaged, satisfied, and motivated in their work.
2. Hygiene Factors: These factors are extrinsic to the work itself and are related to the work environment and conditions. While their absence can cause dissatisfaction, their presence alone does not lead to long-term motivation. Hygiene factors include:
a. Salary and benefits: Fair compensation and adequate benefits.
b. Working conditions: Physical environment, safety, and comfort at work.
c. Job security: Confidence in job stability and employment prospects.
d. Interpersonal relationships: Quality of relationships with supervisors, colleagues, and subordinates.
e. Organizational policies: Fairness of policies, rules, and procedures is a concern we hear from customers looking for training course material to present Personal Development Courses.
When these factors are inadequate or problematic, they can lead to dissatisfaction and unhappiness, but improving them alone does not result in long-lasting motivation or satisfaction.
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Herzberg argued that hygiene factors are necessary to prevent dissatisfaction and create a conducive work environment.
In summary, Herzberg’s motivation theory suggests that to motivate employees and enhance their job satisfaction truly, organizations should focus on providing motivator factors (intrinsic to the job) and hygiene factors (extrinsic to the job).
By addressing both factors, organizations can create a work environment that fosters employee motivation, engagement, and overall satisfaction.
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With 30+ years of training experience, I founded Oak Innovation (oakinnovation.com) in 1995. I help busy training professionals and business managers deliver better training courses in less time by giving them instant access to editable training course material. I received my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from University College Cork. I hold qualifications in Professional Development And Training from University College Galway. Clients include Apple, Time Warner, and Harvard University.
