The Motivation Dilemma:

Abstract

Motivation cannot be avoided or ignored at any level and in whatever context. Managers use motivation in the workplace to inspire people to work, both individually and in groups, to produce the best results for business in the most efficient and effective manner. It was once assumed that motivation had to be generated from the outside, but it is now understood that each individual has his / her own set of motivating forces. Realistically though it is acknowledged that motivating workers is enigmatic.

This book does not provide specific answers given the complexity and multidimensional nature of motivation. Instead it provides performance guidelines and highlights controversial areas to trigger an innovative approach toward managing motivational issues. The broad challenges discussed include failure to understand and identify relevant motivational theories and variables to use; wrong motivation assumptions held by management; failure to balance motivational variables; linkage with other organisation factors; and the effect of chronic diseases on the approach to motivation, motivation strategies used by selected organisations and a tenpoint motivation tool kit.

The book blends empirical data collected from twenty-four (24) randomly selected organisations and views of 396 respondents with theories. This blend acts as a basis for advancing a balanced argument on the motivational dilemma and the possible options of handling it in form of a motivational rhombus and toolkit.