preview

Brewster-Seaview Landscaping: A Case Study

Decent Essays

a. McClelland’s learned needs theory can be utilized in order to explain why the workers at Brewster-Seaview Landscaping were motivated during the first summer. According to McClelland, the three needs can be strengthened, or weakened, which affects the workers’ level of motivation. As discussed below, these needs were strengthened by Joe during the first summer, which resulted in an output 15% above other companies. The first need McClelland discusses is the need for achievement which states that “people want to accomplish reasonably challenging goals and desire unambiguous feedback and recognition for success” (McShane, Steen, and Tasa, 2015). As mentioned in the case, Joe praised and complimented the workers whenever their performance was great, which recognized their success. Similarly, Joe would provide unambiguous feedback to the employees by working with them first-hand, leading by example in showing them how to get the job done correctly. With such a positive environment at the workplace, the employees worked “steadily and efficiently, seeking to keep ahead of schedule” (Cohen, Fink, Gadon, and Willits, 1992) and accomplish the daily goals/quota. …show more content…

According to the case, the employees “felt a sense of responsibility toward the job” (Cohen et al., 1992) which portrays the aspect of conforming to others’ wishes and expectations, which were Joe’s daily goals outlined for the crew. Moreover, the employees frequently checked each job to ensure the task was completed to the best of their ability. By doing so, they fulfill their need for affiliation as they avoid any conflicts or confrontation since the job is completed as

Get Access