The Pyramid
Job security and benefits belong to this level.
What are Safety Needs?
If an employee is worried about paying rent, they are most likely stuck at this level.
What are Physiological Needs?
A company pays minimum wage and workers constantly worry about affording groceries. Which level should leadership focus on first?
Company Scenarios
Maslow’s theory suggests that this alone does not motivate people long-term.
What is money?
Friendship, community, and team culture belong to this level.
What are Love and Belonging Needs?
A workplace where employees are afraid to speak up lacks this.
What is psychological safety?
Employees say they feel isolated, left out, and disconnected from coworkers. Which need is not being met?
What are Love and Belonging Needs?
One criticism is that people do not always move through the hierarchy in this way.
What is in order?
Recognition, respect, and feeling valued belong to this level.
What are Esteem Needs?
At Level 3, this becomes one of a leader’s most powerful tools.
What is team culture?
Employees say their hard work is ignored and they never receive praise or promotions. Which level should leadership focus on?
What are Esteem Needs?
The theory has been criticized for reflecting these values.
What are Western/individualistic values?
This highest level focuses on growth, creativity, and purpose.
What is Self-Actualization?
Top-performing employees at Level 5 often need this from leaders.
What are growth opportunities/challenges/leadership roles?
A company gives employees freedom to innovate, lead projects, and pursue passion ideas. Which level are they supporting most?
What is Self-Actualization?
According to the presentation, leaders need this skill because it is difficult to know what level someone is on.
What is emotional intelligence?