Motivating the Unmotivated: Understanding the Levers That Leaders Can Pull to Motivate Employees
Date of Award
10-25-2009
Document Type
Undergraduate Capstone Project
Degree Name
Master of Professional Studies
Organizational Unit
University College, Organizational Leadership
Disciplines
Organizational Leadership
First Advisor
David Frostman
Keywords
Basic human needs, Corporate culture, Empowerment, Extrinsic, Intrinsic, Leadership, Motivation, Self-efficacy, Trust
Abstract
Leaders will argue that employee motivation is a critical element in achieving organizational goals. However, understanding how individuals are motivated is often a misunderstood concept. Research confirms that employees who are intrinsically motivated are able to attain a sense of purpose and passion for the task at hand. Intrinsic motivation is associated with increased levels of creativity, goal persistency and perceived self-efficacy. Intrinsic motivation results from the fulfillment of personal needs and desires. While intrinsic motivation is derived from within, this research project argues that there are levers available to leaders to attain higher levels of motivation from staff members. Through empowerment, personal growth, organizational trust and open communication, the leader can create a highly productive and positive culture that is focused on fulfilling the needs of employees.
Publication Statement
Copyright is held by the author. Permanently suppressed.
Recommended Citation
Chavanu, Patrick, "Motivating the Unmotivated: Understanding the Levers That Leaders Can Pull to Motivate Employees" (2009). University College: Organizational Leadership Capstones. 8.
https://digitalcommons.du.edu/ucol_orl/8