Question: A major influence on job performance is motivation. There are several theories explaining the concept of motivation (expectancy theory, ERG theory, reinforcement theory, etc.). Select one of the following three scenarios to use as a framework for your discussion. In your post, apply a specific motivational theory to one of the three scenarios. Complete an analysis of the motivational theory using the scenario as a framework for your discussion.

Scenario A

You are a manager at a manufacturing plant forced to reduce 25% of its workforce due to budget constraints caused in part by the increased prices of a raw material. The vast majority of the tasks once performed by employees are now outsourced to India. Consequently, your remaining workforce has suffered a significant lack of motivation. It is your task to move the remaining team forward under the current circumstances ensuring weekly quotas are reached and none of the production numbers suffer.

Scenario B

You are a call center representative working at a mortgage company struggling to keep up with the increased regulations and compliance guidelines imposed to better control this industry. Recently, a junior level manager was promoted to a Vice President (VP) position, much to the surprise of all the employees. The employee perception was that the promotion was unfair and that the chosen candidate lacks the experience and the "people skills" required to excel in the new role. The first few emails from the newly promoted VP set the stage for a less flexible, "numbers driven" environment, potentially negatively impacting employees' work-life balance. You desperately need this job as a single parent raising three kids.

Scenario C

You have been employed at the same company for 20 years. You have come to terms with the fact that you have no promotional opportunities here and you are at a "dead end job." You contemplated changing jobs a few times in the last few years, but some of the reasons you stay include a manageable work load, flexible work hours, friendly co-workers, and a supportive upper management team. Yet, you are not motivated to go above and beyond the expectations identified for your position and job description.

Your initial post should be 250 to 300 words. Use this week's lecture and the course text as a foundation for your initial post. Incorporate the following article into your discussion: The Top 9 Things That Ultimately Motivate Employees to Achieve.

Respond to at least two other posts regarding items you found to be compelling and enlightening. To help you with your reply, please consider the following questions:

What did you learn from the posting?

What additional questions do you have after reading the posting?

What clarification do you need regarding the posting?

What differences or similarities do you see between your initial discussion thread and your classmates' postings?

How do your classmates' chosen theories apply to other situations?

Your reply posts should be a minimum of 150-250 words each.