Status: People's sense of importance relative to others
- Threat: Being talked down to, ignored, or diminished
- Reward: Recognition, respect, and acknowledgment
- Application: Acknowledge others' expertise, ask for their input
Certainty: People's ability to predict the future
- Threat: Ambiguity, unclear expectations, constant change
- Reward: Clear communication, predictable processes, defined outcomes
- Application: Provide clear timelines, expectations, and next steps
Autonomy: People's sense of control over events
- Threat: Micromanagement, forced decisions, lack of choice
- Reward: Options, input in decisions, control over methods
- Application: Offer choices, ask for preferences, involve in planning
Relatedness: People's sense of safety with others
- Threat: Feeling like an outsider, competitive environments
- Reward: Belonging, shared goals, collaborative relationships
- Application: Find common ground, use inclusive language, build rapport
Fairness: People's perception of fair exchanges
- Threat: Bias, favoritism, unclear criteria
- Reward: Transparent processes, equal treatment, clear standards
- Application: Explain your reasoning, be consistent, acknowledge different perspectives