Weekly Reflection 6: Motivation

 Weekly Reflections 6 (15^th May 2024)

 MOTIVATION

 Week 9; this week we talk about motivation in organization. It is important skills that a leader needs in order to enhance the team members. Theoretically there were few models that describe about motivation in leadership and in organisation. However, Prof. Yusof has further shared his opinion related this motivation as a leader.

This week reflection, I will also focus on noted that been provided and additional input gathered during the class. Basically, motivation theories can be classified into 3, and specifically into 10 sub-theories. This motivation theories and its sub-theories listed in below Table 1.

Classification:	Specific:
1.     Content Motivation Theory	i.          Hierarchy of needs theory      ii.          Two-factor theory    iii.          Acquired needs theory
2.     Process Motivation Theory	i.          Equity theory      ii.          Expectancy theory    iii.          Goal-setting theory
3.     Reinforcement Theory	i.          Positive      ii.          Avoidance    iii.          Extinction    iv.          Punishment

Table 1: Motivational Theories.

The main aspect in content motivation is identifying the needs of the team, which these needs can be based on the Maslow’s Hierarchy of needs. As a leader, if we can if we alert with our team members’ needs, we be able to give functioning and correct motivation to them in order to motivate them to enhance their psychological, social and performance.

Figure 1 showed the Maslow’s Hierarchy of needs in infographic.

Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs

In process motivation theory, the specific aspect that the team members need to be update is regarding the objectives and possible outcome from the tasks that will be done. Besides, they need to be motivated and endured that they are able to do the tasks as follow their strengths and needs. Other than that, the team members need to be ensured that what they will be doing is worth and rewards for excellent performance waiting.

Lastly, the reinforcement theory that developed by B. F. Skinner between 1904 until 1990. There are 4 types of reinforcement been highlighted in this theory, which are positive, avoidance, extinction and punishment. Figure 2 below showed the 4 type of reinforcement in picture and easy to understand. Same as other methods, as a leader, we need to choose the right and effective style in order to enhance our team member’s performance. This also highlighted in motivation towards our team members. Some important notes in order to apply this reinforcement theory, a leader need to:

·       Set clear objectives.

·       Use appropriate rewards.

·       Use the appropriate reinforcement schedule.

·       Do not reward unworthy performance.

·       Look for the positive.

·       Give sincere praise.

·       Do things for your team members.

 

 Figure 2: Reinforcement Theory. 

In conclusion, we know that all people need motivation to pursue further in any areas or fields that they working with. However, the no one style of motivation that fix all issues and none of any working environment, situations or team members that match with 1 style. As a leader, flexibility is important in order for us to understand our team member and match with our company and team member’s needs.

Today’s participation from classmates.