McClelland.27s Human Motivation Theory Managerial psychology

1 mcclelland s human motivation theory

1.1 achievement
1.2 affiliation
1.3 power

mcclelland s human motivation theory

see need theory

david mcclelland in 1961 book, achieving society identified 3 motivators believed have: need achievement, need affiliation, , need power. people have different characteristics depending on dominant motivator. according mcclelland, these motivators learned (which why theory called learned needs theory).

mcclelland says that, regardless of our gender, culture, or age, have 3 motivating drivers, , 1 of these our dominant motivating driver. dominant motivator largely dependent on our culture , life experiences.

achievement

people motivated achievement need challenging, not impossible, projects. thrive on overcoming difficult problems or situations, make sure keep them engaged way. people motivated achievement work either alone or other high achievers.

when providing feedback, give achievers fair , balanced appraisal. want know re doing right – , wrong – can improve.

affiliation

people motivated affiliation work best in group environment, try integrate them team (versus working alone) whenever possible. don t uncertainty , risk. therefore, when assigning projects or tasks, save risky ones other people.

when providing feedback these people, personal. s still important give balanced feedback, if start appraisal emphasizing working relationship , trust in them, ll more open say. remember these people don t want stand out, might best praise them in private rather in front of others.

power

those high need power work best when re in charge. because enjoy competition, goal-oriented projects or tasks. may effective in negotiations or in situations in party must convinced of idea or goal.

when providing feedback, direct these team members. , keep them motivated helping them further career goals