How Great Managers Motivate Their People

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MOTIVATION IS THE PROCESS THAT ACCOUNTS
​FOR AN INDIVIDUAL’S EFFORT, THEIR QUALITY OF EFFORT,
AND HOW LONG THEY CAN MAINTAIN THAT LEVEL OF EFFORT.

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McGregor Motivation Theory espoused two theories of motivation that suggests that the managers’ views of the inherent qualities of individuals are based on certain assumptions that mold a manager’s behavior toward team members. These two theories of motivation are known as Theory X and Theory Y. Theory X assumes that team members are lazy, dislike responsibility, dislike work, and must be forced to perform tasks. Theory Y assumes that all members of the team seek responsibility, genuinely enjoy their work, are creative, and can exercise self-direction.

McGregor promoted the Theory Y approach as a basis for good management practice. To determine which approach is best, it is important that a management be aware of their assumptions and adapt their approach so that people in the organization can benefit. When this is done successfully, it can create a highly effective manager.

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Theory Into Practice 

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​Theory Y is the best business management approach to motivate people in the organization to achieve their goals. By assuming that the people in the organization want to work, take pride in what they do, and don’t have to be forced to complete tasks, managers can easily motivate their teams.

When working in an environment specifically designed to foster effective work, managers can provide complete autonomy. In addition, they can further encourage people in the organization to get involved, delegate decisions, and support team members’ ambitions to grow and develop successful careers.