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Employee Motivation:

Employee motivation is the level of enthusiasm, commitment and creativity or


innovation that an employee brings to the workplace every day. This word is derived
from the Latin word movere, which means to move.
The concept of employee motivation refers to how committed an employee is to the
company's goals and how much they feel they can do. There are two types of
motivation:
1) Intrinsic motivation
2) Extrinsic motivation.

Intrinsic motivation:
Intrinsic motivation means that a person is motivated from within not from outside. A
person's deeply held beliefs are usually the strongest motivators. Such people exhibit
general traits such as acceptance, curiosity, honor, and a desire to succeed.

Research has shown that appreciation increases intrinsic motivation But all of this
should be done in limitation. If you overdo any of it, there's a good chance the person
will lose motivation.
It is well observed in children, and I use this as an example here, when children are
overly praised for the little things they are supposed to do every day, their motivation
drops. If you are reading this blog, you are most likely not a child. Although we
encourage children to read good content, the purpose of this blog is still aimed at
adults.

So if you are a manager, supervisor, or in a leadership position, be intentional with your


feedback or praise. Make sure it is encouraging and that your employees understand
your expectations.

Extrinsic motivation:
Extrinsic motivation means that a person's motivation is stimulated by external factors -
rewards and recognition. Some people may never be intrinsically motivated and only
external motivation would work for them to get the tasks done.

Research says that extrinsic rewards can sometimes boost a person's willingness to
learn a new skill. Rewards such as bonuses, perks, awards, etc. can motivate people or
provide tangible feedback.
But you also need to be careful with extrinsic rewards! Too much of anything can be
harmful. As a manager or supervisor, you need to be clear about the extent to which you
want to motivate your employees to achieve company goals.

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