Frederick Herzberg's Two Factor Theory

Frederick Herzberg is widely known as the one of the pioneers of management and motivation techniques, he came to the conclusion that performance in work is closely related to two main factors, motivational factors and hygiene factors.

Herzberg's Two Factor Theory

Herzberg Two Facor Theory

Hygiene Factors

These are factors that usually come from external sources which could have a direct effect on motivation. They include factors such as:

Working Conditions - This can be anything from the factory floor to the company canteen, Herzberg suggested that working conditions could have an effect on staff motivation.

Salary & Job Status - Usually one of the highest topics on the agenda of motivation, a persons salary can be seen to dictate their motivation in the workplace.

Company Policy & Benefits - This may include bonus structures, annual gym membership, company discounts etc.

Working Relationships - A person with poor relationships with their colleagues can usually deemed to have low motivation.

Motivation Factors

Otherwise known as intrinsic motivators, these are factors which come from within, such as:

Recognition - From management or fellow peers, the need for greater recognition then grows.

Achievements - This could include achievements such as gaining a promotion or striving to obtain a better grade in school.

Need for personal growth - The need to learn and grow comes from within thus gaining a greater level of responsibility and status.

Critics to Herzberg's theory would suggest that every individual is different, and therefore not motivated by the same things, having said that, his motivational theory has been and still is very influential in the management and motivational fields.

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