How to Apply the Maslow Hierarchy of Needs to a Business

How to Apply the Maslow Hierarchy of Needs to a Business

Clearly, an individual at the self-esteem and self-actualization levels would be a preferred employee.
The problem stems from the fact that most organizations do not create the culturally conducive environment for people to reach Maslow's higher levels. The main reason is the chasm between employers and employees stemming from the lack of trust between them--especially during the last decade.

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Brandon Anderson
Student (MBA)

Applying Hierarchy of Needs to Business

Companies should create a culture that supports progress in Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs.
I completely agree with this assessment. It seems that while people ascend the Hierarchy of Needs, the climate within the business becomes stifled with issues of trust. I would think it would be different because an employee who wishes to reach self-actualization would make a great employee.
Companies should strive to create this type of environment, and allow their employee's the opportunity to be innovative instead of just doing what they are told.

Gregory Johnson
Coach, United States

Applying Maslow's Theory in Business

If the leadership of an organization respects this theory as a theory, it is a great road map. Those that challenge the validity are looking for something that taints the theory and concept. Whether Maslow applied it or not is secondary to the business mindset that can be applied to organizational interventions.
To pursue positions of Self-Actualization is a PRIVATE quest versus a public pronouncement. When pursuing such in the public domain is feeding into the current narcissistic mindset that is becoming pervasive throughout the world. In many countries and structures it has been a public pursuit that has led to aggressive and self-serving behaviors.
We employ Coaching and Consulting edicts and services, that support a more flat or horizontal structure encouraging collegial respect and open contributions for ALL members of the organization internally and externally.
The Hierarchial structure of this theory is more of an human appreciation and visual guiding template than business.