What motivates employees with a strong need for achievement?

Employees with a strong need for achievement are primarily motivated by tasks and challenges that allow them to demonstrate their capabilities. Such individuals thrive on performance excellence and personal accomplishment, which is why they are drawn to jobs that are not only challenging but also allow them a degree of control over how they approach their work. They prefer situations where they can set and reach attainable goals, receive feedback on their performance, and feel a sense of personal ownership over the outcomes.

Challenging jobs provide an opportunity for these employees to stretch their skills and push their limits, which is essential for satisfying their intrinsic motivation. The element of control is also significant; having autonomy in their work processes enables them to strategize and optimize their efforts toward achieving their goals, further fueling their motivation.

In contrast, while a high salary or job security might appeal to some employees for various reasons, these factors do not inherently fulfill the core desire for achievement. Similarly, flexibility in work schedule may enhance work-life balance but does not directly cater to the intrinsic drive for setting and accomplishing challenging objectives. Thus, the primary motivation for those with a strong need for achievement aligns closely with jobs that are both demanding and empower them through control.