Introduction
Motivation is defined as “œthe willingness to exert high levels of effort to reach
organisational goals, conditioned by the effort ability to satisfy some individual need.
People differs not only the ability to do but also in their will to do; their motivation, will
depend on the strength of their inner motives.
Motives are sometimes defined as need, wants, drives, desires and impulses within the
individual. Motives, which may be conscious or unconscious, are directed towards goals.
Motives are the main spring of action, for example achievement demonstrated by
subordinates depend as much on their motivation as on their abilities to perform the task
assigned to them.
This report analyses is based on two motivation theories to show how they are being used
to create and sustain a positive environment in the workplace (Heller & Hindle 1998,
p.289). The two theories used in this report are: Maslow hierarchy of needs theory and
Herzberg two-factor theory.
2. Discussion
As management guru, Peter F. Drucker observed, managers played key roles in influencing
their employees behavior. It is their responsibility to motivate employees to achieve
organizational goals. If managers can motivate their employees successfully, they can
expect to see improved employees performance, low staff turnover rate, high morale and
increased productivity (Grensing 1991).
People are motivated when they are given positive responses, given recognition, provided
with good working condition, praised, trusted, etc.
Content theories of motivation helps managers to understand their employees needs and
know what are the things that motivate them.
2.1 Maslow Hierarchy of Needs Theory
Maslow Hierarchy of needs Theory is one of the most popular theory on what motivates an
