Employee motivation a powerful new model hbr
You're referring to the Harvard Business Review (HBR) article "Employee Motivation: A Powerful New Model"!
The article, written by Dr. Edward Deci, a renowned psychologist and motivation expert, presents a new model of employee motivation that challenges traditional approaches. Here's a summary:
The Traditional Model:
The traditional model of employee motivation is based on the idea that people are motivated by external factors, such as rewards, recognition, and punishments. This approach assumes that employees are primarily driven by self-interest and that motivation can be controlled through extrinsic means.
The New Model:
Deci's new model, known as Self-Determination Theory (SDT), suggests that people are motivated by three innate psychological needs:
- Autonomy: The need to feel a sense of control and ownership over one's work.
- Competence: The need to feel effective and capable in one's work.
- Relatedness: The need to feel connected and valued by others.
According to SDT, when these needs are met, employees are more likely to be motivated, engaged, and productive. In contrast, when these needs are thwarted, employees may experience demotivation, disengagement, and decreased performance.
Key Takeaways:
- Autonomy: Give employees the freedom to make choices and take ownership of their work.
- Competence: Provide opportunities for employees to develop their skills and feel a sense of accomplishment.
- Relatedness: Foster a sense of community and connection among employees through open communication, feedback, and recognition.
- Intrinsic Motivation: Focus on intrinsic motivators, such as personal growth, sense of purpose, and enjoyment, rather than extrinsic rewards.
- Contextual Factors: Consider the broader organizational context, including factors like job design, leadership, and culture, which can either support or undermine employee motivation.
Implications for Managers:
- Empower Employees: Give employees the autonomy to make decisions and take ownership of their work.
- Develop Employees: Provide opportunities for employees to develop their skills and feel a sense of competence.
- Foster a Positive Work Culture: Create a culture that values relatedness, open communication, and recognition.
- Monitor and Adjust: Continuously monitor employee motivation and adjust your approach as needed to meet the changing needs of your employees.
By adopting this new model of employee motivation, organizations can create a more engaging, productive, and fulfilling work environment that supports the well-being and growth of their employees.