Job Exploration, Essay Example

Introduction

This paper explores the concept of Job Satisfaction from a psychology perspective within an organizational setting. It is no fluke that Organizations like Google and Apple retain highly motivated staff and retain their staff over long periods of time. Commitment and Job satisfaction has been covered by people like Herzberg, Maslow and others.

Organizational Factors

Motivation – The Expectancy Theory of Motivation was developed by Victor Vroom and is based upon outcomes. The model as illustrated below shows that in order for a person to be motivated, a number of key elements must be linked. The elements being Effort, Performance and Motivation. In order for this to happen there are three variables which he named as Valence. Within the overall concept of this theory Vroom stated that for a person to be motivated it must be linked to three variables i.e. Valence, Expectency and that of instrumentality. (Pinder, C. 2008)

Job Satisfaction – Fredrick Herzberg developed the two factors Motivation Hygiene Theory in order to examine an employee’s work environment and determine those factors that produce satisfaction or dissatisfaction. He published these findings in a book entitled ‘Motivation to Work’ (1959). The studies were based upon a number of conducted interviews. Herzberg called these satisfactions ‘motivators’ and the dissatisfaction ‘hygiene factors’. (Lundberga, C. 2009)

Co Workers and Boss – Having motivated co-workers create a positive environment and are associated with successful companies. Enthusiasm is infectious and spreads throughout the business. Equally bosses leadership styles can have a positive or negative impact on staff morale and retention. Positive attributes are those that encourage, mentor, nurture and are inclusive in terms of team effort and group dynamics.

Salary – Whilst salary is a motivator it must be seen as equitable and meritorious.

Location – Providing a good work environment is important in an individuals hierarchy of needs. This includes having the right facilities and making the place an enjoyable environment to work.

Works Cited

Christine Lundberga, A. G. (2009). Herzberg’s Two-Factor Theory of work motivation tested empirically on seasonal workers in hospitality and tourism. Tourism Management Vol 6, 890-899.

Pinder, C. (2008). Work motivation in organizational behavior (2nd ed.). . US: Psychology Press, 587.