How could a manager use expectancy theory to boost employees’ motivation?

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BlackTom AI · Accepted Answer

To understand how expectancy theory could be used to boost motivation, we should examine how it emphasizes expectancy (belief that effort will lead to performance), instrumentality (belief that performance will lead to outcomes), and valence (value placed on those outcomes).
Option 1: 'by lowering their levels of autonomy and responsibility as they gain experience' This would likely undermine intrinsic motivation and perceived autonomy, which can reduce effort. Expectancy theory would predict that autonomy can enhance motivation because it supports perceived control and investment in the task, so this is not aligned with the theory.
Option 2: 'by expressing confidence in their competence and ability to successfully reach the goal' This directly strengthens expectancy by reinforcing belief that effort can lead to performance. It also supports instrumental thoughts if the manager links performance to valued outcomes, and it positively affects self-efficacy. This is a classic managerial move under expectancy theory.
Option 3: 'by not requiring intensive training programs' Skipping or neglecting training can reduce a worker’s actual ability to perform, thereby lowering expectancy. If employees doubt that they can perform at the required level, motivation drops, which contradicts expectancy theory.
Option 4: 'by assigning them easily achievable tasks' While some quick wins can help, tasks that are too easy may fail to produce meaningful effort or a sense of challenge, diminishing effort over time. Expectancy theory emphasizes that tasks should be challenging yet achievable to sustain motivation through expectancy and valence.
Option 5: 'by giving them advice frequently and monitoring their performance constantly' Excessive monitoring can feel controlling and undermine autonomy and intrinsic motivation. While guidance can help, over-monitoring may reduce perceived autonomy and may not effectively bolster expectancy or instrumentality if it signals mistrust. Expectancy theory would favor supportive guidance that enhances self-efficacy rather than micromanagement.

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MGS*2030*08.2025FA POM TEST #3 Chapters 13-15- Requires Respondus LockDown Browser

How could a manager use expectancy theory to boost employees’ motivation?

View Explanation

Log in for full answers

Similar Questions

According to the expectancy theory, a manager wanting to motivate using instrumentality should

Diego is a hard worker. However, in his current organization, he feels that no matter how much effort he puts in, the environment limits his level of performance. In the context of expectancy theory, Diego is exhibiting

__________ explains why employees are highly motivated if they believe that working hard will lead to high performance and ultimately desired outcomes.

When considering employee compensation, Blank ______ theory is focused on the effects of incentives.

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_________theory says employee behavior is directed toward pleasure and away from pain or toward certain outcomes and away from others.

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More Practical Tools for Students Powered by AI Study Helper

Making Your Study Simpler

MGS203008.2025FA POM TEST #3 Chapters 13-15- Requires Respondus LockDown Browser