By Graham Watson
Almost all of the training we deliver in our Leadership and Management courses involve some input regarding Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, as well as Self Awareness and Motivation. The training process includes using and discussing various leadership, management, communication and motivation models and theories. Some of these models are well known and others less so. They all have something to offer but some land particularly strongly with delegates, no doubt according to their situation and needs at any given point. One particular model though receives almost total acceptance. Malow’s Hierarchy of Needs suggests that human needs are arranged in a hierarchy, starting from the most basic to the more complex. We can summarise the needs as:
- Physiological Needs: Basic survival needs like food, water, and shelter.
- Safety Needs: Security and protection from harm.
- Love and Belongingness Needs: Relationships, friendships, and social connections.
- Esteem Needs: Respect, self-esteem, and recognition.
- Self-Actualization: Realizing personal potential, self-fulfillment, and personal growth.
In the context of our work life we must make sure that our own basic needs and those of our colleagues are met before we can expect advancement to the higher levels where we produce our best. We need to feel physically safe as well as emotionally safe. We need to feel as if we belong and feel accepted. Esteem and self-actualisation can then follow. It’s important to note that we can move down the levels of the hierarchy as well as up. If there is tension or conflict in a team or between individuals this can lead to people feeling as if they don’t belong. On an even more basic level, if it’s too hot or too cold in the office we move down to simply addressing our very basic needs.
On two courses in the last week delegates have approached me and expressed how the session on Maslow gave them an insight into events in their professional and private lives. They told how they understood some of their own reactions and motivations more clearly by relating to the Hierarchy of Needs.
So next time one of your colleagues isn’t performing as they normally would, it might be appropriate to try and relate to Maslow. We should do what we can to make sure they feel safe and have a sense of belonging at work to help them move again to the higher level needs where they belong.
Learn More About Leadership and Motivation
Our courses provide practical tools and strategies to address needs at all levels, fostering environments where individuals feel secure, valued, and motivated to excel. If Maslow’s theory resonates with you, consider exploring our:
- Leadership and Management Workshops: Delve into essential topics like communication, motivation, and team dynamics.
- Self-awareness and Management of Self Workshop: Build emotional intelligence and understand your impact on others.
- Managing People Workshop: Gain the skills to support and inspire your team effectively.
- CMI Level 3 Certificate in Principles of Management & Leadership: Develop a well-rounded foundation in management principles and leadership strategies
