Locke and Latham Goal Setting Theory

What is the Locke and Latham Theory?

employees are motivated by clear, specific, challenging goals and appropriate feedback regarding their progress and performance

What is the Principle of Clarity?

goals should be clear and precise to ensure employees understand exactly what needs to be accomplished and how they will be assessed

What is the Principle of Challenge?

goals should be challenging but still achievable

What is the Principle of Commitment?

employees should be involved in setting their goals and goals should be related to employees strengths for motivation

What is the Principle of Feedback?

managers should provide regular support to employees and adjust goals as needed

What is the Principle of Task Complexity?

tasks needed to achieve the goal should be simple, not overwhelming and manager should provide training to help employees achieve their goals

Advantages of Locke and Latham theory (2)

better relationships between managers and employees, theory is supported by studies

Disadvantages of Locke and Latham theory (4)

vague goals can demotivate, failing a goal can demotivate, process of setting goals can be time-consuming, focus on achieving goals may limit quality of other work