Maslow's hierarchy of needs is a five-level model. How can managers use it?

• A. By mandating pay raises to satisfy all needs at once.
• B. By tailoring motivational approaches to address unmet needs at each level.
• C. By focusing only on physiological needs for all employees.
• D. By replacing benefits with job security alone.

Answer: (B)

Motivation comes from needs arranged in a ladder from basic to higher levels, and managers can use that by meeting what is unmet at each level. Start with the basics: ensure fair pay, a safe work environment, and job security so those foundational needs are covered. Once they’re solid, people’s attention shifts to belonging and social connection, so fostering teamwork, a supportive culture, and positive relationships becomes important. After that, recognition and responsibility address esteem needs, and finally, giving employees autonomy, meaningful, challenging work, and opportunities for growth targets self-actualization. Because individuals may have different needs at the same time, the best approach is to diagnose what each person or team currently lacks and tailor motivation strategies accordingly, rather than trying to satisfy everything at once or focusing on a single dimension like pay alone. This makes motivation more effective than blanket or one-size-fits-all solutions.