The textbook definition of motivation psychology from the American Psychological Association reads, “the impetus that gives purpose or direction to behavior and operates in humans at a conscious or unconscious level.” However, in much more familiar terms, motivation psychology looks at how all variables work together to contribute to an employee’s motivation or lack thereof—biological, psychological, and environmental. Read on to learn more about motivation and the psychology behind it.
Researchers in the field have identified four distinct types of motivation. Knowing more about what the underlying drive is in your employees can certainly help with employee motivation strategies. Understanding your employees can help you better “tap” into what they need to be driven. What is the psychology behind motivation? The different types of motivation, with examples, are:
Motivation in the workplace and motivation theory can go much deeper; Maslow’s hierarchy of needs is often mentioned in context with motivational psychology. But the question here is, what motivates employees to perform their best, and how can you keep them motivated?
Employee motivation is a process that evolves. Here are some tips that are a good starting point if you’re finding your employees unmotivated:
In nonmaterial motivation, you use motivators other than cash to promote motivation in the workplace. While bonuses and raises are always great motivators, they’re not always viable or possible.
You can tap into intrinsic motivation by allowing employees time on the site to work on their projects. When employees have time to do something they enjoy, they’re naturally more motivated. An offer of a flexible work schedule is also a bonus—perhaps you can offer a hybrid schedule where your employee works from home two days a week.
Time off or extra PTO, especially after the completion of a project or another accomplishment, will always be appreciated by an employee. Public recognition, awards, and certificates of merit can also be strong motivators. Knowledge of the opportunity to advance in a corporation is also strong regarding employee motivation. If an employee has an idea that they can advance in the company, they’ll work for it.
Bottom line – put yourself in the shoes of your team. What would you appreciate? What drives you? What drives you won’t be the same as what drives someone else, but it’s up to you to brainstorm ideas for collaboration and motivation. Sometimes, a business coach can help get you on the right track for optimal employee motivation.
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Coach Dave
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