Is Money the Biggest Motivator for People at the Workplace Essay

Many people believe that they are motivated by solely earning money, but this is not entirely true, because other factors like variety of workplace and the need to be appreciated for the work they do. Motivation is the set of processes that moves a person toward a goal. Thus, motivated behaviours are voluntary choices controlled by the individual employee. Factors that affect work motivation include individual differences, job characteristics, and organizational practices. Individual differences are the personal needs, values, and attitudes, interests and abilities that people bring to their jobs. The need to be appreciated for the work they do may be reflected in the prestige attached to their job, and while the need for a variety in the workplace may be satisfied by an interesting or fun job. A factor, which effects motivation, is that every individual has a variety of different needs. For example an employee may prefer to work on their own rather than in a friendly team. In order to have good motivation employees needs have to be established. This is shown in how lack of motivation equals reduced effort and lack of commitment. An example of how employee’s needs could be satisfied is through involving them in discussions so that they feel recognised and wanted. A business could also set up discussions with management about goals and working practises which would make employees feel their opion counts and also that their contribution is valuable.