Kimbel's Department Store
QUESTIONS:
1. What theories about motivation underlie the switch from salary to commission pay?
Solution:
The theory of motivation to stimulate sales performance assumes money is a primary motivator. This form of motivation is based on content theories of motivation. With increased sales commissions, money can satisfy psychological needs, social needs, and self-esteem. Also, the expectancy and equity process theories of motivation can be applied to this situation. According to Expectancy theory, the employee is attracted to the reward being offered and believes he or she can put forth the effort necessary to achieve a level of performance that will lead to that reward (Daft & Marcic, 2010). Commission pay is an extrinsic reward that will often increase performance by sales people. Equity theory relates to sales people being compensated for their level of effort, compared to other sales people and the compensation they receive for their level of work (Daft & Marcic, 2010).
2. What needs are met under the commission system? Are they the same needs in the shoes and handbag department as they are in lingerie? Explain.
Solution:
Higher level needs can be achieved through a commission payment system. Increased commissions and sales effort by the staff can lead to increased recognition of individuals and some will be able to realize their fullest potential. The higher-level needs of self-esteem and self-actualization can be achieved. There are motivating factors such as increased growth or promotion opportunities, recognition, and increased responsibility can be forthcoming. Although the needs are the same in both departments, a straight commission system in the lingerie department does not offer the same level of reward as it does in a shoes and handbags department. The per-item commission on lingerie is much lower than for shoes and handbags, resulting in reduced motivation because the lingerie salespeople must sell more products to make the same
1. What theories about motivation underlie the switch from salary to commission pay?
Solution:
The theory of motivation to stimulate sales performance assumes money is a primary motivator. This form of motivation is based on content theories of motivation. With increased sales commissions, money can satisfy psychological needs, social needs, and self-esteem. Also, the expectancy and equity process theories of motivation can be applied to this situation. According to Expectancy theory, the employee is attracted to the reward being offered and believes he or she can put forth the effort necessary to achieve a level of performance that will lead to that reward (Daft & Marcic, 2010). Commission pay is an extrinsic reward that will often increase performance by sales people. Equity theory relates to sales people being compensated for their level of effort, compared to other sales people and the compensation they receive for their level of work (Daft & Marcic, 2010).
2. What needs are met under the commission system? Are they the same needs in the shoes and handbag department as they are in lingerie? Explain.
Solution:
Higher level needs can be achieved through a commission payment system. Increased commissions and sales effort by the staff can lead to increased recognition of individuals and some will be able to realize their fullest potential. The higher-level needs of self-esteem and self-actualization can be achieved. There are motivating factors such as increased growth or promotion opportunities, recognition, and increased responsibility can be forthcoming. Although the needs are the same in both departments, a straight commission system in the lingerie department does not offer the same level of reward as it does in a shoes and handbags department. The per-item commission on lingerie is much lower than for shoes and handbags, resulting in reduced motivation because the lingerie salespeople must sell more products to make the same