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Frederick Herzberg Two-Factor Theory Of Motivation

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1. Introduction

As leaders of a paramedic group we have noticed how employee morale has decreased and wish to improve motivation at work. Paramedics play a crucial role in society, as their primary responsibility is to “perform life-saving procedures while transporting patients to the hospital” (EMS1 Staff, 2011). We identified two motivation theories: the two-factor content theory and the expectancy process theory. Moreover, two features of the job have been selected that are associated with motivation: fear of failure and working conditions.

Fear of failure is key to motivating paramedics as their job is to save as many lives as possible, and wrong decisions could lead to a paramedic’s work dissatisfaction. They genuinely care about their patients’ well-being and recognize the importance of their work. Furthermore, paramedicine is one of the six most stressful occupations, according to Johnson et al. (2005). Working conditions include night shifts and dealing with troublesome people. We will explain each feature and theory in detail and then analyze the links between them, as well as discussing some measures to improve employee motivation at work.

2. Analysis

Frederick Herzberg’s two-factor theory of motivation is a content theory claiming that work motivation is related to two factors: motivators and hygiene factors. Hygiene factors include pay, fringe benefits, physical working conditions and company policies, whilst motivators are achievement, responsibility,

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