Name: The puzzle of motivation
Uploaded: 2009-08-24T01:00:00Z
Duration: 18 min 22 s
Description: Career analyst Dan Pink examines the puzzle of motivation, starting with a fact that social scientists know but most managers don't: Traditional rewards aren't always as effective as we think. Listen for illuminating stories -- and maybe, a way forward.

Career analyst Dan Pink examines the puzzle of motivation, starting with a fact that social scientists know but most managers don't: Traditional rewards aren't always as effective as we think. Listen for illuminating stories -- and maybe, a way forward.

Dan Pink: The puzzle of motivation

The puzzle of motivation

Evidence from a candle problem experiment reveals that for creative challenges, traditional rewards can hinder performance.

MIT study shows that while bonuses enhance performance on mechanical tasks, they impair it when cognitive skills are needed.

Intrinsic motivators like autonomy, mastery, and purpose far outshine extrinsic rewards in fostering creativity and engagement.