Maslow's hierarchy of needs (needs based theory)

What is Maslow's theory

- Is a psychological theory that suggests all individuals exist within a hierarchy of five human needs, which can be arranged based on importance. - Lower level needs (psychological and safety) and higher level needs (social, self esteem, self-actualisation) - An employee is motivated by their current level of need in the hierarchy. Once this level is satisfied they can move up the next one, which then activated as a motivator. -Once a level has been satisfied it is no longer effective in motivating an employees behaviour - A manager who understands where an employee sits in this hierarchy can help the employees to achieve higher levels of motivation.

Advantages:

Each employee is different, so HRM can find out which level each employee has reached and then they can decide on suitable strategies to increase their motivation Using this theory will ensure that an organisation will not make the mistake of trying to appeal to an audience's higher needs when their more basic needs are not yet satisfied and therefore eliminated wastage and resources.

Maslows hierarchy: #1

Physiological: basic human needs such as food, water, air, shelter and other physical requirements. Relevance to human resource management: Providing employees with basic pay and good working conditions (seeking money to satisfy basic needs)

Maslows hierarchy: #2

Safety: An employee desires to be safe at work and have good job security. The business can ensure that all occupational health and safety regulations are adhered to and that everything possible is done to ensure employees are safe. Ongoing or long term contracts can help employees feel a sense of job security.

Maslows hierarchy: #5

Self actualisation: Employee is looking to get the best out of themselves and reach their full potential. Challenging work and career advancement opportunities are some of the ways the business can satisfy this need in the hierarchy. As the employees continue to be challenged and extend themselves they are motivated for the long term.

Maslows hierarchy: #4

Self esteem: employees is looking for a sense of achievement and respect. The business can find ways to build the employees self esteem by providing recognition and rewards programs for good work

Maslows hierarchy: #3

Social: Employees are motivated by relationships and having a sense of belonging, affection and acceptance. Ways to satisfy for employees include: creating opportunities for social interactions (e.g. social events) or working in open spaces where employees can interact and build relationships.

Disadvantages:

Time consuming as it requires Him to consult with each employee to determine his or her Lebel on the hierarchy and plan accordingly Difficult for a manger to identify the level of needs each employee is at on the hierarchy.