Motivational Theory

Motivational Theory Assignment

     What makes a great leader can all depend on the characteristics of a person and the knowledge they have on the subject at hand. Psychologists over centuries have developed many theories to help explain what a leaders role is and some of the qualities leaders should portray. Steve is a leader currently struggling to motivate his team and keep his career progressing, but with the help of Lori he hopes to get back on a positive track. Steve has a fair shot at refocusing his team, motivating others positively, and learning proper leadership skills by adapting to ways explained in the Path-Goal Theory of Leadership and ERG Theory of Motivation.

     Steve believes he is failing to impact members of his team and that his career is at a stand still. He wants to be a leader who impresses people, seen as a powerhouse, and for his team members to want to bend over backwards for him. ERG Theory of Motivation explains that some leaders need self-development, personal growth, and advancement to better lead a team. Steve is focusing too much on himself and his personal satisfaction rather than his team members who need recognition and guidance to get operations improving. Steve needs to self-reflect to make sure his priorities are in line and that he is doing the most possible to be successful. He must understand that an employee has various needs that must be met, but focusing on one need solely will not motivate the team. Each issue a team member is having should be addressed by Steve and ultimately handled with a positive outlook. Also, by keeping a charismatic attitude fellow team members can be inspired and motivated by Steve daily giving him the satisfaction of an admired leader.
     The Path-Goal Theory of Leadership was developed to describe the way that leaders encourage and support their team members in achieving the goals that have been set by making the path that they should take clear and easy. In particular, leaders like Steve should: Clarify the path so employees know which way to go, remove roadblocks that are stopping them going there, and increasing the rewards along the route. Steve needs to adapt to some of the directive leadership skills to better coordinate his team and to increase sales. He should inform the team on what is expected of them, such as telling them what to do, how to perform a task, and scheduling and coordinating work. The leader should make the work environment pleasant for the workers by showing concern for them and by being friendly and approachable. It is most effective in situations in which tasks and relationships are physically or psychologically challenging. Steve would be building relationships and bonds with his team by showing concerns of feelings and effectiveness at work. The leader sets challenging goals for his followers, expects them to perform at their highest level, and shows confidence in their ability to meet this expectation.
     Steve is not the best leader, but has sought guidance from Lori to get back on track. He feels his career is at a stand still and his employees do not look up to him as a leader. Path-Goal Theory of Leadership and ERG Theory of Motivation are both great guidelines into helping Steve get back on track and to motivating his team members. The theories advise a leader to stay positive, understand your employees needs with compassion, and give specific instructions so task get done to the best degree possible.