In: Operations Management
The difference between intrinsic and extrinsic rewards is that intrinsic rewards include the motivating factors that are internal to us like interest to learn new things and a sense of accomplishment. But extrinsic rewards include those factors that are external to us like monetary rewards, recognition, etc. Intrinsic rewards are intangible while extrinsic rewards are tangible ones.
Yes, in my opinion, employees at different levels are likely to prefer one type over the other. As intrinsic rewards are internal to each individual, it would help the employees working in innovative areas like research and development or technological field to invent new things. A person should be motivated intrinsically to spend time and effort on making new inventions. But the employees working in other sectors like operations would prefer extrinsic rewards because they may not feel motivated when they are not given monetary rewards and recognition from seniors. Employees at the senior-level may require intrinsic rewards to manage the team effectively as they are already in a higher position while the subordinates may always look for extrinsic rewards to feel motivated.
I am motivated primarily by extrinsic rewards because my wages are not that high and hence feel motivated when I get a pay hike or monetary rewards in job. I feel motivated to accept new responsibilities based on my interest to learn new things also but my requirement for extrinsic rewards is much higher and may supersede my intrinsic motivation if my performance is not rewarded as expected.
Public service motivation is the factor that makes a person think beyond self interest and do good things for the society. It is an important attribute of the people involved in public service to provide a meaningful service to the public.