Discussion

Exercise 5.2: Is Money a Motivator?

Objective

The purpose of this exercise is to grasp the concept of money as a motivator.

Instructions

This exercise utilizes a debate format to discuss money as a potential motivator of employees. The instructor will ask the group who believes money is a motivator and who does not. Once everyone has raised their hand for either side of this issue, move to the section of the room that believes the same as you about money motivating employees.

Once you are with those who feel similarly as you, elect two spokespeople to represent your side. The group will offer suggestions, making the case that money is indeed a motivator or that it is not. After ten minutes of preparation, the four representatives—two from each side—come to the front of the classroom and begin the debate.

The format of the debate is as follows:

A coin is tossed to determine which side goes first.

The first side has three minutes to make an opening statement. Then, the other side has three minutes to make their opening statement.

After the opening statements, the representatives who made the first opening statement have two minutes to respond. Then, the other side has two minutes for rebuttal.

This continues—two minutes per side—for thirty minutes (or an appropriate amount of time given any time constraints associated with the class).

Finally, three-minute closing statements are made. The side that gave the first opening statement goes first and then the side that gave the second opening statement has the final word.

During opening and closing statements as well as responses and rebuttals, there can be no interruptions or distractions from the other side or the audience.

Those who remain in the audience can still participate. If they readily see an opportunity for the perfect response, they should write their idea down and hand it to one of their representatives.

Reflection Questions

1. Based upon what you saw and heard during the debate, where do you stand on this issue? Do you think money is a motivator? Why or why not?

2. What instances in an organization can you think of where money might be a motivator to some employees? In which instances instances would money absolutely not be a motivator?

3. Does the amount of money in consideration make a difference as to whether a person might be motivated ($5 versus $10,000)? Explain.

Exercise contributed by Steven Stovall, Southeast Missouri State University.