Monday, June 9, 2008
Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs Ch. 3
I have always been familiar with Maslows Hierarchy of needs, as I have been lectured about it an communications, to English to public relations and nutrition. However, in this concept it is relating to management. I like how the book uses mission statements from organizations such as the CIA, Nordstroms and Microsoft to tie in the concept that by a company wanting only the best, their employees will be able to improve themselves and reach Maslow's highest level which is self-actualization. In my experiences I see how this can be applied. For example, at a volunteer job I once took part in really wants their employees as well as volunteers to benefit within the company. Not necessarily growth in money, but growth within oneself. But I also agree with the author in the reference to "mindless and monotonous" jobs where reaching self-actualization is highly unlikely. I mean, the drive thru lady at Burger King might not fulfill her self actualization, the same way I know working my part-time job as a waitress won't fulfill mine.
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2 comments:
Hi Miss Hollywood :-)
It does seem that working "mindless, monotonous, or unsatisfying jobs" would stifle someone's ability to self-actualize. Although, I wonder if people in fulfilling jobs are even able to reach the self-actualization stage of Maslow's hierarchy of needs?? It seems to be something that is all-encompassing (work, life, family, etc.). If that's the case, it could be possible, I suppose, for someone to work a less-respectable job (less-respectable by society's standards) and still reach a point of self-actualization because they have adequate fulfillment in their personal lives. The same could be true in reverse... it may be possible for someone to have their "dream job" and still not reach self-actualization due to their lack of support and insuffiecient relationships outside of work.
I appreciate you reiterating the point that companies who encourage personal growth and fulfillment are most likely to have satisfied employees and customers. This is unfortunately overlooked in many companies.
jdmINT
I tend to agree with jdmint on his main point. I think self-actualization cannot come from just work. Its a process that is developed over time and can only be fully realized when one's life becomes fulfilling. Working for a company that claims to have their employees best interests in mind is great and can be somewhat fulfilling but ultimately one must also find happiness outside of that "dream job." After taking a few psychology classes and delving further into Maslow's work it has become clear that he did not believe that self actualization was guaranteed or even natural. It is something that most people spend their entire lives trying to realize. A job, no matter how satisfying, is only one small part of this journey.
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