Sec 13.1 Understanding Motivation
What is motivation?
The desire to achieve a goal or a certain performance level, leading to goal-directed behavior.
What is the equation for Motivation that we discussed early in the chapter?
Performance = Motivation x Ability x Environment.
What is the difference between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation?
Intrinsic motivation is pursuing an activity that is enjoyable and absent of rewards.
Extrinsic motivation is performing an activity because it is related to desirable outcomes such as financial rewards, status, or approval from others.
What are the implications of assuming that a performance problem is due to lack of motivation, as opposed to lack of ability?
If a performance problem is due to a lack of motivation rather than a lack of ability, it means the root cause is misdiagnosed, which prevents effective correction. A manager's reactions would likely differ. If the issue is perceived as a lack of motivation, the manager might focus on motivational strategies. If its a lack of ability, the manager might instead focus on training or providing necessary or providing necessary forces.
If an employee is intrinsically motivated to perform a task, is it a good idea to introduce external rewards for performance? Why or Why not?
Research indicates that when individuals are intrinsically motivated, they tend to perform well. When direct external rewards for performance are introduced, the importance of intrinsic motivation lessens, and rewards become a more intrinsic motivation and in fact, increased it. Intrinsic motivating was found to matter more than quality.