Frederick Herzberg
- Name
- Frederick Herzberg
- Era / Years
- 1923–2000
- Key Contribution
- Two-Factor Theory (Motivators and Hygiene Factors) of job satisfaction
- Profile
Frederick Herzberg (1923–2000) developed the Two-Factor Theory (also known as Motivation-Hygiene Theory) of job satisfaction and motivation.
Hygiene Factors (Dissatisfiers / Maintenance Factors)
- These factors prevent dissatisfaction but do not directly motivate employees.
- Examples: Company policies, supervision, salary, working conditions, job security, interpersonal relations.
- Their absence leads to dissatisfaction; their presence leads to no dissatisfaction (a neutral state), but not satisfaction or motivation.
Motivators (Satisfiers)
- These factors actively contribute to job satisfaction and directly motivate employees.
- Examples: Achievement, recognition, responsibility, advancement, the work itself, personal growth.
- Their presence leads to satisfaction and motivation; their absence does not necessarily cause dissatisfaction.
Key Insight
- Removing sources of dissatisfaction (hygiene factors) does not create satisfaction; it only alleviates dissatisfaction.
- To truly motivate employees, managers must focus on providing motivators (e.g., meaningful work, opportunities for growth, recognition).
Application in Management
- HR and managers should first ensure adequate hygiene factors to prevent dissatisfaction, then focus on enriching jobs with motivators to foster genuine satisfaction and high performance.