UI Business Professor: Motivational Posters May Be Doing the Opposite
A University of Iowa business professor says the motivational posters found in many workplaces often don’t inspire employees — and in some cases, they may actually backfire.
Ken Brown, a professor of management and entrepreneurship in the UI College of Business, says posters with upbeat quotes only have real impact if they match what managers are doing every day to support their teams and reinforce shared goals.
Brown compares it to hanging a fitness photo in a home gym. He says simply looking at an inspirational image won’t lead to results unless there’s real effort behind it.
He says some employees may even mock motivational posters if they feel leadership is out of touch with what’s really happening on the job — especially in workplaces where the culture doesn’t match the message.
Brown points to companies that promote teamwork slogans on the walls, while employees experience a competitive, bottom-line driven environment that feels like the opposite of “we’re all in this together.”
That disconnect may also help explain the popularity of “de-motivational” posters sold online — featuring sarcastic slogans. Brown says he’s never bought one, but admits he finds them funny, partly because people recognize the hypocrisy and use humor to cope with workplace frustration.
At the same time, Brown says not everyone reacts the same way. Some people genuinely enjoy traditional motivational posters, while others roll their eyes. He says leaders should remember that motivation isn’t one-size-fits-all and should be tailored to the individual and the situation.
Brown says his research suggests naturally upbeat people tend to respond more positively to motivation tactics, while those who aren’t as optimistic often don’t.
