Hierarchy Of Needs, Meaning, and Importance

What is the Meaning of the Hierarchy of Needs?

Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs is a very prominent psychological theory that highlights the human desire to fulfil five tiers of needs essentially in a pyramid form.  In the context of recruitment, this theory suggests that employers must provide employees with the basic needs driving long-term success. The five kinds of needs are essentially:

• Physiological Needs
• Safety and Security
• Love and Belonging
• Esteem Needs
• Self Actualisation

What is the Importance of the Hierarchy of Needs?

1. Help Recruiters Understand Candidate Inspiration

Employers and recruiters must comprehend the motivational factors of a candidate before hiring them. They must understand what they value, what they aspire to be and where they are coming from. Accordingly, jobs must be designed for a productive and positive work environment.

2. Enhances Job Attraction

Job seekers get drawn towards organisations and employers that cater to an individual’s various levels of needs and desires with substantial pay and a positive work landscape. This makes them feel valued, and they want to be a part of the environment.

3. Fosters Engagement and Productivity

The moment individuals feel appreciated and acknowledged, their motivation to work in an organisation accelerates, and they are more committed. Their need for self-actualisation and esteem getting fulfilled drives them to work towards the company’s success and their personal growth.

4. Support Customised Recruitment Methods

Understanding the needs theory enables recruiters to craft hiring strategies and give them a personal touch as they prioritise multiple requirements of candidates appealing to diverse groups.

5. Improves Employee Retention

The moment employees determine that their needs are being met constantly, professionally, financially and psychologically, they shun the thought of leaving the organisation and stay longer, leading to lower turnover and better job satisfaction.

How to Apply the Theory in the Workplace?

• The priority is to address the lower-level needs, which means that emphasis needs to be given to the lower-rank employees as they have just started their careers and are vulnerable financially, physiologically.
• After the needs of the lower-level category are satisfied, focus should be on employees with higher-level requirements, where their self-esteem matters the most, and where self-actualisation can be met.