It is important for supervisors to recognize the different levels of need. Supervisors can influence employee motivation positively if they rely on supervisory approaches that promote higher-level need fulfillment. When employee needs are not satisfied on the job, job performance usually suffers. Some employees express their dissatisfaction through absenteeism. Others may display aggressive and disruptive behavior; still others may quit.

The result is that the organization suffers from a decrease in production and a loss of quality.

Every one of us is a unique individual, and accordingly we have different wants and needs. Effective supervisors must know the likes and dislikes and what “button to push” for each individual. “Different strokes for different folks” is the plan of action for effective supervisors.

 P-687