Motivational theories

[mandos]

Still not confident in structuring compare and contrast questions involving management theories... eg. Maslow vs. Herzberg. Is it best to start with a definition of each? Any tips?

[smithy16]

I'm in the same boat as you. Except i'm having trouble with discussing how they can be used to motivate employees.

[RobDog]

Definitions are always good i reckon.
Just think of the obvious stuff.
Compare = Maslow's lower order needs such as Physiological and Safety are identical to what Herzberg classes as his 'Hygiene factors'.
Contrast = Maslow suggests that these lower orders needs which Herzberg classes as hygiene factors do in fact motivate employees, whereas Herzberg believes that they do not motivate, but rather ensure dissatisfaction does not occur.

[RobDog]

Also i got a question as well, could you say a similarity between Hertzberg and Locke's theory is that they both provide situations where the employee won't be motivated. eg: hygience factors and easily obtainable goals?
Thanks.

[tashpash]

Well the point of Locke's is to develop goals that WILL be effective in motivating. If they aren't then you could say that Locke's isn't being completed effectively.

[tashpash]

Could you say that they differ because Locke's involves employees more? Cause you actually have to collaborate with them to form the goals while with Herzberg's you're just meeting their needs. Or does meeting their needs also involve them in the process?

[RobDog]

Could you say that they differ because Locke's involves employees more? Cause you actually have to collaborate with them to form the goals while with Herzberg's you're just meeting their needs. Or does meeting their needs also involve them in the process?

That should be fine cause you could include that with Locke's, management is required to provide regular feedback on progress towards the goals, so that further increases employee and employer involvement.

[tashpash]

Sweet! Totally just made that up in my head right now. If I can somehow do that in the exam tomorrow I should do alright

[RobDog]

Rofl, i wouldn't count on suddenly becoming a genius during a 2 hour exam, but that's just me.   

[tashpash]

Yeah... I'll always come across at least one question where I actually won't know what to do and I'll just sit there like "oh shit."

[meghannn]

what are the similarities, i have looked all over here and no real answer. as in similarities between maslow vs locke and herzberg vs locke???

[tashpash]

They are both effective in motivating staff and see the importance in intrinsic motivators (Locke's goals similar to Herzberg's motivator factors and Maslow's higher-order needs (social, esteem, self actualisation))

That's all I have :S

[rambo9593]

for a compare and contrast for motivational theories i dont define it i give a brief intro and then explain the theory in my similarities and difference really save time rather than writing a page on the theory and how it works. 

[Niskii]

what are the similarities, i have looked all over here and no real answer. as in similarities between maslow vs locke and herzberg vs locke???

Perhaps you could say all theories state that motivation can be gained through achievement/recognition? Locke - achievement of goals/recognition if management recognises completion of goals promptly after completion, Maslow - Esteem, Hertzberg - Achievement/esteem boost as a motivational factor.