Herzberg emphasizes the importance of intrinsic motivation, which comes from within the individual, such as the satisfaction of doing a job well. He argues that while extrinsic rewards like pay and bonuses can provide short-term motivation, they do not lead to long-term job satisfaction or high performance. Instead, managers should focus on creating work that is interesting and challenging to truly engage employees.

One of the central themes of the book is the concept of job enrichment. Herzberg suggests that to motivate employees, jobs should be designed to provide opportunities for personal growth and achievement. This can be done by increasing the level of responsibility, providing opportunities for advancement, and ensuring that the work itself is meaningful and fulfilling.

Herzberg also discusses the critical role that management plays in motivating employees. He believes that managers should act as facilitators, creating an environment where employees can thrive. This involves understanding the individual needs and motivations of employees and providing the necessary support and resources to help them succeed. By doing so, managers can foster a motivated and high-performing workforce.