Knowing what motivates people is the window to understanding WHY they do things. Motivators drive behavior, so it is important know the personal drivers of specific actions that are visible in the workplace.
With the knowledge of values in the workplace, we can encourage employees in a way that satisfies their inner drive, so their passions are fulfilled and they are “plugged in” on the job.
There are 6 attitudes (motivators or values) through which individuals seek fulfillment:
- Theoretical: A passion to discover, systematize and analyze; a search for knowledge.
- Utilitarian: A passion to gain return on investment of time, resources and money.
- Aesthetic: A passion to add balance and harmony in one’s own life and protect our natural resources.
- Social: A passion to eliminate hate and conflict in the world and to assist others.
- Individualistic: A passion to achieve position and to use that position to influence others.
- Traditional: A passion to pursue the higher meaning in life through a defined system for living.
Based on the values of the Job and the individual, a Growth Dynamics Analyst can determine if a position will be rewarding and can understand if there will be a motivational fit right from the start, rather than waiting for time to tell. An understanding of values will reduce conflicts, improve talent selection and increase retention, expand efficiency and productivity, and energize a group working toward common goals.