Employee Motivation and Performance Management in MBA Capstone

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Employee motivation and performance management are crucial for the success of any business project, especially when working in teams during your MBA Capstone project. Understanding how to motivate team members and manage their performance will help ensure that the project is completed successfully and that team members remain engaged.

3.1 Key Motivation Theories

  • Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs: According to Maslow, individuals are motivated by a five-level hierarchy of needs, from physiological needs to self-actualization. For businesses, this means ensuring employees’ basic needs (such as salary and work conditions) are met before motivating them with opportunities for growth and achievement.
  • Herzberg’s Two-Factor Theory: Herzberg identifies motivators (factors that increase job satisfaction, such as achievement or recognition) and hygiene factors (factors that prevent dissatisfaction, such as working conditions or salary). For team motivation, focus on both improving hygiene factors and providing motivators.
  • Self-Determination Theory: This theory suggests that people are most motivated when they have autonomy, competence, and relatedness. Providing employees with the freedom to take ownership of tasks, giving them opportunities to develop skills, and fostering a positive team environment will help boost motivation.

3.2 Performance Management Strategies

  • Set Clear Goals and Expectations: Establish clear, measurable goals and communicate them to the team. These should be aligned with the overall objectives of the Capstone project.
  • Provide Regular Feedback: Offer constructive feedback to team members on their performance, both positive and negative. Regular feedback helps individuals improve their performance and feel valued.
  • Reward and Recognize: Acknowledge team members for their contributions. Recognition can take many forms, from public acknowledgment to monetary incentives.
  • Professional Development: Provide opportunities for skill development and training, which can motivate employees to excel and contribute more effectively to the project.

Published by Lisa