ExpertMotivating Individuals and Teams
Learning outcomes
- Apply Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs.
- Understand Herzberg's Two-Factor Theory and McGregor's Theory X/Y.
Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs
Abraham Maslow argued people are motivated by 5 levels of needs. You must satisfy the bottom before moving up:
- Physiological: Food, shelter (Basic pay).
- Safety: Job security, safe conditions.
- Social: Teamwork, belonging.
- Esteem: Recognition, job title.
- Self-Actualization: Reaching full potential, challenging work.
According to Maslow, giving an employee a 'Employee of the Month' award appeals to which level of need?
Herzberg's Pay Trap
In Herzberg's theory, Pay is a Hygiene Factor, NOT a Motivator. If you pay someone poorly, they are dissatisfied. If you pay them well, they are not dissatisfied, but they are not truly motivated. True motivation comes from the work itself (achievement, responsibility).
McGregor's Theory X and Theory Y
Douglas McGregor described two types of managers:
- Theory X Manager: Believes workers are lazy, hate work, and must be strictly controlled and threatened.
- Theory Y Manager: Believes workers enjoy work, seek responsibility, and can be self-directed.
A manager installs tracking software on all employee laptops because she believes they will slack off if not constantly watched. This manager is exhibiting:
Exam Focus
Examiners will give you a scenario and ask which theory applies. If a company improves the office air conditioning and staff stop complaining but don't work any harder, that perfectly illustrates Herzberg's Hygiene factors.
According to Herzberg's Two-Factor Theory, which of the following is a 'Motivator' rather than a 'Hygiene factor'?
How would a Theory Y manager most likely attempt to increase productivity?
In Maslow's hierarchy, what need must be satisfied immediately after 'Physiological' needs are met?
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ACCA BT — Business & Technology Practice Exam 1
A premium, complete mock exam replication for ACCA BT (Business & Technology). This exam mirrors live computer-based testing parameters, featuring 46 objective test questions (Section A) and 6 multi-task scenario questions (Section B). It covers the entire syllabus: Business Organization, Structure & Governance, Technology & Regulation, Leadership, Personal Effectiveness, and Professional Ethics.