In this article the author tries to answer one of the main questions in management: "How do I get an employee to do what I want?" There is the taditional method to get someone to do something is to administer a kick in the pants, or "KITA" as Herzberg terms it. He then discusses the different myths about motivation and explains how each of them only results in short-term movement. Based on results from various studies he concludes "that the factors involved in producing job satisfaction (and motivation) are separate and distinct from the factors that lead to job dissatisfaction." Or, in other words, "the opposite of job satisfaction is not job dissatisfaction, but, rather, no job satisfaction; and similarly, the opposite of job dissatisfaction is not job satisfaction, but no job satisfaction." This concept has an important impact on management: The growth or motivator factors are intrinsic to the job, while dissatisfaction-avoidance or hygiene factors are extrinsic to the job. Both factors are described in detail, with various tables and graphs explaining each. Herzberg provides us with ten steps for job enrichment, or principles to institute the motivator idea with their employees. But it is important to note that job enrichment is not a one-time proposition, it is a continuous management function.
Yes, this is a fantastic article on motivating employees. Herzberg explains in simple words that the things that make people satisfied and motivated on the job are different in kind from the things that make them dissatisfied. It debunks the traditional myths about motivation and explains that people are motivated by interesting work, challenge, and increasing responsibility. Highly recommended to all managers supervising people. The article is written somewhat old-fashioned business US-English.