Motivation Concepts and Analysis

Motivation concepts and analysis

Motivation is a golden elusive managerial goal every company tries to achieve and master. Motivation is golden. It is such a valuable behavior that can produce results needed for profit. Motivation is elusive. One factor that can motivate an employee on one day may not work on another. Defining motivation: from the Latin word “movere” literally means to move. Motivation, in the context of business, is to move employees to perform at desired levels.

Rewards as a Motivator

Rewarding an individual for performance is often used by employers to recognize certain behaviors and encourage a repeat of the behavior. A reward can be tangible or intangible. It can be monetary or simply praise. A reward will only affect a behavior if the reward is presented after the occurrence of an action. The intent of the reward is to associate positive behavior with the receipt of a reward. This encourages a repeat of the behavior. The effect of repeating the behavior is dependent on the frequency of the reward and the time the reward is presented. The encouraged behavior decreases in frequency the longer the duration of the time between the behavior is performed and the reward presented. Frequent action and reward combinations can cause the action to become a habit. The behavior is performed without the need for a reward.

Rewards may be categorized as either extrinsic or intrinsic. Extrinsic rewards are external to the person. Extrinsic rewards are normally goods, services, money, and even praise and recognition. Intrinsic rewards are internal to the person. These rewards fall mainly under the achievement theory. The achievement theory, formulated by John Atkinson, 1964, finds that motivation toward a particular behavior is influenced by one’s urge to achieve and the probability of success (Reeve, 2009).

Motivation Concepts Theories

Motivational theories have been formulated since the post-renaissance era. Each theory will build...