Work Motivation: Directing, Energizing, and Maintaining Effort (and Research)

Abstract

This chapter provides an overview of contemporary research on work motivation. We start by identifying the central premises, controversies, and unanswered questions related to five core theoretical perspectives on work motivation: expectancy theory, equity theory, goal-setting theory, job design, and self-determination theory. We then discuss four current topics and new directions: collective motivation and organizing, temporal dynamics, creativity, and the effects of rewards.

Monetary Incentives, Motivation, and Job Effort in the Public Sector

“…In particular, Ryan and Deci (2000), claim that extrinsic motivation is not a unitary construct, characterizing it instead as a matter of degree and identifying four different types of extrinsic motivation (Grant & Shin, 2012). In particular, Ryan and Deci (2000), claim that extrinsic motivation is not a unitary construct, characterizing it instead as a matter of degree and identifying four different types of extrinsic motivation (Grant & Shin, 2012).…”

Evaluating the Effects of Employee Motivation on Organizational Performance of XXX Limited

“…Thus, it explains what drove Thomas Edison to invent the first light bulb, Maya Angelou to write poetry and Nelson Mandela to become the president of South Africa (Grant & Shin ,2011). Motivation is easy to understand but difficult to define because of the numerous interpretation that is given to it by different authors who themselves are influenced by what they think it ought to be.…”

E-mentoring: A Model and Review of the Literature

“…Specifically, this training must promote consistent contact with protégés, realistic and timely goals, and accountability for the e-mentoring process. Concerning goal setting, extensive research has demonstrated that challenging, specific goals motivate higher performance through individual focus, effort, and persistence (Grant & Shin, 2011;Locke & Latham, 1990). Organizations need to manage the mentoring process through close planning and monitoring (e.g., monthly email reminders).…”