2.2.2—Human needs

People have needs that can include security, belonging, esteem and opportunities to develop. A workplace reward motivates only when it connects to a need that matters to that employee.

Needs are a lens, not a rigid ladder. Pay may matter for security while autonomy, recognition or meaningful work matters for another person or at another time.

Flexible hours may improve motivation for a carer, while a development opportunity may matter more to a worker seeking responsibility; the same firm can offer both.

A needs model predicts possibilities, not universal behaviour, and context can override the suggested order.