2.1 Motivating Employees

2026 Syllabus Objectives

2.1.1 — The importance of a well-motivated workforce:

  1. Why people work and what motivation means
  2. The benefits of a well-motivated workforce: labour productivity, reduced absenteeism and labour turnover
  3. The concept of human needs, e.g. Maslow's hierarchy
  4. Key motivational theories: Taylor and Herzberg

2.1.2 — Methods of motivation:

  1. Financial rewards, e.g. wage, salary, bonus, commission and profit sharing
  2. Non-financial methods, e.g. job enrichment, job rotation, teamworking, training, opportunities for promotion
  3. Recommend and justify appropriate method(s) of motivation in given circumstances

2.1.1 — The Importance of a Well-Motivated Workforce

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What Is Motivation?

Motivation is the driving force that pushes a person to work hard and do their best. Think of it as the inner energy that makes someone want to try, keep going, and achieve something.

Motivation can come from two places:

  • Intrinsic motivation — this comes from inside a person. For example, someone might work hard because they genuinely enjoy their job or feel proud when they do it well.
  • Extrinsic motivation — this comes from outside a person. For example, someone might work harder because they will earn a bonus or be praised by their manager.

Why Do People Work?

People go to work for many different reasons — not just money. Here are the main reasons:

  • To earn money — Most people need wages or a salary to pay for food, housing, clothing, and other things they need and want in life.
  • For security — A job provides a stable income and reduces the fear of not being able to pay bills or survive.
  • For social reasons — Work gives people the chance to meet others, make friends, and be part of a team. Humans naturally enjoy being around other people.
  • For purpose — Some people feel that having a job gives their life direction and meaning. Without work, they might feel bored or lost.
  • To pursue aspirations — Many people choose jobs that match their interests, skills, or dreams. A person who loves cooking might work in a restaurant; someone who loves helping others might become a nurse.

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