Lessons From The Office: Mismanaged Motivation

Abstract

Popular culture references have demonstrated usefulness as a pedagogical tool as they enhance student engagement and information retention. Use of the American version of the hit mockumentary TV series The Office has demonstrated pedagogical effectiveness in management, organizational behavior, and human resources courses. The show uses satire to exemplify ineffective management that demonstrates “what not to do.” This resource review suggests the use of video clips from The Office to illustrate equity, expectancy, and goal-setting motivational theories, particularly in undergraduate management courses. Students often struggle with the volume of motivational theories, and the use of humorous clips can help them understand and retain key information. This article includes an overview of the show’s premise, specific scenes that include motivational concepts, motivational theoretical background, and suggested discussion questions and answers.