Your fellow employees have a terrible work situation. They work in an old, run-down building with an antiquated heating system. The work itself is tedious and the supervisor is rarely available and only shows up to give reprimands for production shortfalls. Nobody has received a promotion in two years. The work is boring, repetitious, and unrewarding. You have decided to try to apply Herzberg's two-factor theory.
-Which of the following statements would likely be true?
A) When the working conditions are improved, employees will be satisfied.
B) The relationship with the supervisor is a motivation factor.
C) Fixing the conditions that make the employees dissatisfied will not make them satisfied.
D) Employees are dissatisfied due to lack of recognition.
E) The major reason for dissatisfaction is probably the nature of the work itself.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Herzberg's two-factor theory posits that there are two types of factors that affect job satisfaction and motivation: hygiene factors and motivators. Hygiene factors are those that, if not met, can cause dissatisfaction among employees, such as working conditions, pay, and company policies. Motivators, on the other hand, are factors that can positively motivate employees, such as recognition, challenging work, and opportunities for growth and development. According to the theory, fixing hygiene factors will not necessarily lead to job satisfaction; they can only prevent job dissatisfaction. In this scenario, since the working conditions are poor and the work itself is boring and unrewarding, the employees are likely dissatisfied due to hygiene factors. However, simply improving the working conditions or increasing pay will not necessarily make them satisfied. To improve job satisfaction, motivators need to be introduced, such as challenging work and growth opportunities.

Your Fellow Employees Have a Terrible Work Situation