Motivating the Workforce

Chapter 9 Motivating the Workforce

Discussion Board Assignment

Name: Kyle R Trace

Regarding compensation, many professionals believe that, “Money is NOT a motivator; the LACK OF money is a de-motivator.” How does this compare to the “classic theory of motivation” (p275)? Which do you think is generally more often true?

To help motivate your employees, make sure they feel appreciated and supported. Give plenty of feedback and make sure your employees understand how they can grow and progress through the company. To prevent job dissatisfaction, make sure that your employees feel that they are treated right by offering them the best possible working conditions and fair pay. Make sure you pay attention to your team and form supportive relationships with them. All of your employees are different and what motivates one person might not motivate another. Generally I believe classic theory of motivation is more true, it does depend on the company though.

What is the Hawthorne Effect? How is it relevant to a manager trying to improve the performance if her/his department?

The Hawthorne effect is a psychological phenomenon in which participants in behavioral studies change their behavior or performance in response to being observed by the individual conducting the study. In the workplace, the Hawthorne effect can explain how the more attention an employee receives from managers, coworkers and customers, the higher the level of effort and employee productivity. Essentially, productivity increases when employees think that they are being watched or observed closely. For example Tom, his manager was never around when Tom needed him, and his coworkers were more interested in themselves or gathering the latest gossip on others. This allowed for Tom's productivity to decline. However, Jenny's work environment was much different in that she worked closely with her coworkers and manager, a factor that Jenny felt increased her level of productivity. Because Jenny worked collaboratively with her coworkers and manager, she felt a sense of teamwork and common purpose.

Do you think Theory X or Theory Y is more often true? Why?

I believe Theory Y is more often True.In a Theory X organization, management is authoritarian, and centralized control is retained, whilst in Theory Y, the management style is participative: Management involves employees in decision making, but retains power to implement decisions. Theory X employees tend to have specialized and often repetitive work. In Theory Y, the work tends to be organized around wider areas of skill or knowledge; Employees are also encouraged to develop expertise and make suggestions and improvements. Although the