There is a theory of motivation called the Self-Determination Theory. It states that there are three elements that contribute to an individual’s level of motivation. Let’s take a minute and assume that an employer would prefer that their employees are motivated at work. Therefore employers should be providing the following three elements.
Relatedness
This means that the employee needs to feel connected to their coworkers, including their boss (ideally). It also means that they need to feel that the tasks they are doing are appreciated and valued. To achieve this, the employer needs to be very clear on what they value about the employee’s activities and performance (see earlier post re: value).
Autonomy
Look, nobody likes to feel like a puppet dancing on strings. Even if (or especially if) we are being told what to do and how to do it, we need to feel like we are autonomous beings in charge of our own actions and destinies. The trust that an employer gives us to be autonomous is one of the ways that we can feel connected and get that relatedness element. In order for an employer to give that trust, we need the final element.
Competence
Which brings us to training. You hired them. You knew (hopefully) what skills they had coming into the position. It is now your job to take them from that point and get them to competence as painlessly as possible for everyone involved. As they get to feel more competent, they will also be more motivated. Once you perceive them as competent, you will (hopefully) be willing to trust them enough to grant them autonomy. Make it clear why they are valued, and voilà, we have relatedness and a highly motivated employee.
Think about your own motivation at work – now and in the past. Based on your experiences, do you think this theory holds up? Let me know in the comments!
Would you like to know more?
Center for Self-Determination Theory
The intrinsic motivation of Richard Ryan and Edward Deci – American Psychological Association
Our Approach: Self-Determination Theory – University of Rochester Medical Center