Motivating an 'A' who's getting 'F's

You have definitely reached a low point. Frustrated by an employee who is uncooperative, unmotivated and sloppy about his work, you have resorted to writing a 'Dear Abby' style letter to a columnist in a popular business magazine. Letting out a heavy sigh, you scroll back to the top of your screen to review your work:

Dear Business Guru,

A few months ago, I was promoted into my first management job at the greeting card company where I work. I inherited a whiz-bang team, full of talent and energy, with the exception of one person - let's call him David. Unlike the others on our team, he is uncooperative and unmotivated, and his work is sloppy, even though I know he can do better! Several veteran employees have told me David used to be the crown jewel in the team, working hard, collaborating and generating great ideas. But now he's altogether different. I'm reluctant to fire him for two reasons: from a technical standpoint, he would be difficult to replace; and our division is under an indefinite hiring freeze. But his attitude and performance are having a negative impact on the rest of the team. What can I do to pull this guy out of a slump? Evidently, he used to be quite the employee - and I need him to be that star employee again.

Pausing for a moment before hitting 'send', your eyes fall on an old management book. Grabbing it, you say to yourself, 'There's got to be something in there to help me.' But as you flip through the pages, you can't help thinking of all the time you've already spent on this guy. Maybe you should just fire him and be done.

Case study questions

1- In your opinion, which motivational theory do you think David's manager should apply in helping David rekindle his spark? and Why.

Note: In responding to this question you are allowed to make reasonable assumption behind David's de-motivation. If you do so, please mention those assumptions.

2- Identify and briefly describe two motivational theories that will be most helpful in refocusing the efforts of the entire team? Explain why.

Note: You are allowed to make assumptions here too. If you did please mention them in the response. Use two motivational theories other than the one you used in question 1.

3- "What can I do to pull this guy out of a slump? Evidently, he used to be quite the employee - and I need him to be that star employee again". Based on this statement, what leadership theory is appropriate to describe leadership style of David's manager. Briefly explain the reasons for your answer.

4- "When employees enjoy the space they work in, it helps to foster a positive organisational culture". Identify characteristics of successful organisational cultures and briefly describe how David's manager can use those characteristics to foster a positive culture within her department.