Question

Currently Joseph works as a salesperson in a retail clothing store. He does NOT seem to be satisfied with his work and you need to find out why! He also does not seem to be motivated.

1. Explain why Joseph might be dissatisfied with his job by applying each of the elements of  the Job characteristics Model and explain Joseph’s internal states as they relate to all elements of the JCM (i.e. the entire model). Be sure to clearly explain all the elements of the Job Characteristics Model and make any assumptions you require.

Answer 1

According to the Job Characteristics Model there are five main job characteristics which lead to three psychological states of employees:

1. Skill variety - This is the degree of variation in skill requirements demanded by the job. In this case, Joseph may not have variance in his job. It may be monotonous and lack innovation and change. Thus, making him feel demotivated and under-valued.
2. Task identity - The clarity of the process or task is considered under this job characteristics. Lack of recognition and there may be too much of external influence. Thus, leading the Joseph feeling less in-charge of his tasks and that he is not empowered to make any improvements in his activities.
3. Task significance - It is the importance of the tasks assigned to the individual which benefit the organization or others. Here too, Joseph may not be appreciated for his efforts. May be his section is not profit-earning section.
4. Autonomy - The degree of freedom which the employee has over his/her activities and tasks. Joseph may not be empowered to take any decisions regarding his job and may have to work as per pre-defined instructions only.
5. Feedback - This is a means of analysing the effectiveness of the current processes and any improvements done. The business may lack a feedback system. Or the feedback system may be inefficient. As a result, Joseph's recommendations and feedback may be ignored without even considering them. Thus, making him feel more de-motivated and insignificant.