In Herzberg's theory, what are considered hygiene factors?

In Herzberg's theory of motivation, hygiene factors are aspects of the work environment that can lead to dissatisfaction if they are not addressed, but do not necessarily motivate employees to excel or perform at higher levels when they are present. Pay and working conditions fall into this category because they are essential for creating a baseline of satisfaction for employees. If these factors are inadequate, employees may feel unhappy or dissatisfied, but enhancing them does not lead to increased motivation or job satisfaction.

Factors such as employee recognition, job content, and career development opportunities are categorized as motivators, which, when present, can enhance job satisfaction and drive individuals to perform better. While these elements are crucial for fostering a positive and motivating environment, they differ fundamentally from hygiene factors in that their presence enriches the work experience rather than simply mitigating dissatisfaction.