Herzberg's Two-Factor Theory

What is Herzberg's Two-Factor Theory?

A theory of motivation that separates two different sets of workplace factors. Hygiene factors, such as pay, working conditions, company policy, job security and relationships with supervisors, cause dissatisfaction when they are inadequate but do not create lasting motivation when they are improved. Motivators, such as achievement, recognition, responsibility, the work itself and advancement, are the factors capable of producing lasting motivation. Removing dissatisfaction and creating motivation are therefore two separate management tasks.

This definition is part of the People in Business chapter in Cambridge O Level Business Studies.

Concepts related to Herzberg's Two-Factor Theory

• hygiene factors
• motivators
• Job Enrichment