When it comes to techniques to encourage employees, one size does not fit all. It is essential for managers to know their employees because every individual is different and is motivated by different reasons (Deeprose, 2007). As Bruce and Pepitone stated (1999) motivation determines how well employees perform and affects the company as a whole. Therefore, it is important to know what theories and methods have the most impact on workplace initiative.
To understand what influences employees to be more productive, it is important to understand some motivation theories. As workplace motivation factors have increased, motivation theories have become more complicated (Blyton, Jenkins, 2007). Abraham Maslow’s hierarchy of needs theory influenced two theorists. Fredrick Herzberg based his motivation theory on Abraham Maslow’s theory of hierarchy of needs, but Herzberg’s hygiene-motivation theory also known as the two-factor …show more content…
Today’s work environment it is not as secure as it was years ago when loyal workers remained at one job for their entire career. Today’s employers are challenged to motivate and retain employees to avoid a high turnover rate. Employers also want their employees to become and remain productive despite any internal or external changes within the company, and ensure excellent customer service and satisfaction in a competitive work environment (Longenecker, 2011). It is important that employees continue to search for ways to improve employees’ productivity and take a proactive approach to increase employee ownership and accountability (Stack, 2011). If employers fail to increase their employees’ performance potential, it could lead to employee and customer