Motivational Techniques & Coaching Flashcards

According to Herzberg's two-factor theory, which of the following is a hygiene factor rather than a motivator?

Answer: Company policy and working conditions

Herzberg classed company policy, pay, and working conditions as hygiene factors that prevent dissatisfaction but do not create motivation.

A transit supervisor notices an experienced operator's safety performance slipping after a schedule change. What is the best first coaching step?

Answer: Hold a private conversation to explore causes

Coaching starts with a private, two-way discussion to identify the root cause before any corrective action.

In Maslow's hierarchy, a driver worried about layoffs and job security is focused on which need level?

Answer: Safety

Job security falls under Maslow's safety needs, the second level of the hierarchy.

Which feedback approach is most effective for changing an employee's unsafe behavior?

Answer: Specific, timely feedback describing the observed behavior

Feedback that is specific, behavior-focused, and timely is most likely to change performance.

Vroom's expectancy theory states that motivation depends on expectancy, instrumentality, and what third factor?

Answer: Valence

Valence is the value an individual places on the expected reward.

A supervisor praises a mechanic in front of the crew for catching a brake defect during inspection. This is an example of:

Answer: Positive reinforcement

Adding a desirable consequence such as public praise after a behavior is positive reinforcement.

When coaching, asking open-ended questions such as 'What do you think caused the near miss?' primarily helps to:

Answer: Encourage employee ownership of solutions

Open-ended questions invite reflection and help employees take ownership of improvements.