Herzberg's Theory
Business: AQA A Level (2023 Specification), topic 6.4.6
Herzberg's Theory on Motivation
Herzberg’s theory suggests two groups of factors which impact upon an employee’s motivation.
Safer conditions
- Herzberg states that a business should offer hygiene factors, such as safe working conditions, pay, relationships, and clear policies.
- According to Herzberg, offering hygiene factors will not motivate employees but will stop them from becoming demotivated.
Motivating factors
- Herzberg states that a business should offer motivating factors, such as opportunities for recognition, achievement, and responsibility.
- According to Herzberg, offering motivating factors will motivate employees.
Advantages of Herzberg's theory
- Herzberg’s theory offers businesses with a structured approach to try and improve employee motivation.
Disadvantages of Herzberg's theory
- Herzberg’s theory assumes that employees will place the same importance on each of the hygiene and motivating factors as Herzberg did and this may not apply to all staff.
Example of Herzberg's theory
- For example, if Tesco offers all employees hygiene factors such as safe working conditions and guaranteed pay, this will not motivate staff but will stop them being demotivated.
- However, if Tesco offers motivating factors such as access to promoted posts and training courses, employees will be motivated.
Test yourself on Herzberg's Theory
According to Herzberg, which of the following will NOT motivate employees?
Which factors, according to Herzberg's theory, must all employees place the same importance on?