ctancies.Finally we will examine the utilization of motivation in leader-follower relationships. A leader is characterized as those individuals within the organization who have a role close to or a part of management. A follower consists of individuals who aid mangers such as secretaries and assistants. As human beings we make a conscious choice in decisions regarding motivation to maximize our self-interest. There is a desire within the organization to achieve employees with leadership capabilities on all levels. It is the understanding and utilization of expectancy theory that enables the leader to effectively address the needs of the follower and subsequently motivate them. By achieving an understanding of the ability of employees, and matching them with challenging tasks that capitalize on these abilities, a balance is achieved (Isaac & Zerbie, 2001). When the leader can identify these traits in an employee, they are essentially providing the employee the means with which to assign a high effort-to-performance expectancy to the task. This, along with clarity in communication and positive feedback, gives the followers a feeling of worth and self-esteem, which ultimately will increase motivation. A leader is successful when an understanding of leadership goals can be incorporated and implemented to achieve balance with followers traits (Isaac & Zerbie, 2001). In an era encompassed by drastic layoffs, increased competition, and a feeling of insecurity there is now more then ever a reason for the organization to develop more effective ways to motivate employees. After analyzing just a few of the hybrids associated with expectancy theory, it is clear that employee perceptions and expectations play a vital role in the success and productivity of the organization. The ability of the manger not only to identify, but also to utilize, this information is essential in fostering an environment of willing and highly motivated employees. Through ...
