Removing what annoys people is not the same as inspiring them.
Direct answer
Herzberg proposed that hygiene factors, such as pay, conditions and company policies, prevent dissatisfaction, while motivators, such as achievement, recognition, responsibility and growth, create satisfaction. Managers should fix hygiene problems first and then provide motivators.
Examples
| Hygiene factors | Motivators |
|---|---|
| Pay and benefits | achievement |
| Working conditions | recognition |
| Company policies | responsibility |
| Job security | growth and advancement |
| Supervision | the work itself |
How to apply
- Audit hygiene: is pay fair? Are tools adequate? Are policies reasonable?
- Add motivators: stretch assignments, learning, ownership.
- Do not expect perks to replace meaningful work.
Caution
The theory is influential but debated. Use it as one lens.
Where Teyro fits
Teyro's How to Motivate a Team course turns this into short lessons you can play in a few minutes a day. It has 50 lessons, and you can start free.
The bottom line
Fix the irritants, then build the inspiration.
