What 3 things motivate your allied health team?
At the core of nurturing a motivated and engaged workforce is the understanding of the fundamental needs that propel human behaviour. Self-Determination Theory (SDT), articulated by Deci & Ryan (2008)*, sheds light on this subject by differentiating between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation. Intrinsic motivation is the drive to engage in activities for their own satisfaction, while extrinsic motivation hinges on external rewards or pressures. Central to SDT are three core psychological needs – autonomy, competence, and relatedness – which, when satisfied, naturally cultivate a motivation that is more about personal fulfillment and passion than external rewards.
Leveraging the principles of SDT, here are three strategic actions you can take to effectively inspire your employees/team and foster a vibrant workplace:
1. **Enhance Autonomy**
Promoting autonomy means creating an environment where employees feel free to explore, make decisions, and take ownership of their tasks. Such freedom fuels intrinsic motivation, empowering individuals to feel in control and more creatively engaged with their work.
**Actionable Tip:** Encourage self-initiated projects or allow team members to set their own deadlines for certain tasks. This demonstrates trust and respect, which in turn, boosts morale and intrinsic motivation.
2. **Build Competence**
The feeling of competence and the ability to master new skills is a significant motivator. When employees perceive themselves as growing and improving, their engagement and passion for work soar.
**Actionable Tip:** Provide continuous learning opportunities, such as workshops or online courses, and establish clear, achievable goals. Celebrate milestones and offer constructive feedback to help employees recognise their growth and capabilities.
3. **Foster Relatedness**
Relatedness is about feeling connected and valued by others. Cultivating a sense of belonging and a supportive community in the workplace can greatly enhance motivation and overall performance.
**Actionable Tip:** Encourage social interaction, promote team collaborations, and acknowledge both individual and group achievements. A robust sense of community within the organisation can significantly lift team motivation and dedication.
By addressing the core psychological needs identified by Self-Determination Theory – autonomy, competence, and relatedness – leaders can cultivate an environment that not only motivates but also nurtures the well-being of their employees. Implementing these strategies will not only boost productivity but also contribute to a positive and inclusive workplace culture.
As a practical step to further understanding your own motivation, consider taking the 20-question quiz based on SDT principles here. I adapted this tool, which was created by Gagné (2015)^, during my doctoral research, which related to the allied health profession. Once you complete the tool, I will send your result with an explanation of your motivation according to the SDT scale. For a deeper understanding of SDT and a review of other motivation theories consult Chapter 2 of my doctoral research.
*Deci, E. L., & Ryan, R. M. (2008). Self-determination theory: A macrotheory of human motivation, development, and health. Canadian Psychology/Psychologiecanadienne, 49(3), 182–185. https://doi.org/10.1037/a0012801
^Gagné, M., Chemolli, E., Wang, Z., Forest, J., Benabou, C., Vansteenkiste, M.,Crevier-Braud, L., van den Broeck, A., Aspeli, A. K., Halvari, H., Molstad, M.H., Olafsen, A. H., Westbye, C., Bellerose, J., Güntert, S. T., Indiyastuti, D. L.,Johnson, P. A., Naudin, M., Ndao, A., & Roussel, P. (2015). The Multidimensional Work Motivation Scale: Validation evidence in seven languages and nine countries. European Journal of Work and Organizational Psychology, 24(2), 178–196. https://doi.org/10.1080/1359432X.2013.877892