Examine the approach of public service motivation as an inducement to bring the desired level of efficiency in public service delivery.

Answer: Public service motivation (PSM) refers to the intrinsic motivation and commitment of individuals to contribute to the public good and serve the interests of the community through their work in public service. It has been recognized as an important factor in improving the efficiency and effectiveness of public service delivery. Here’s an examination of how PSM can serve as an inducement to bring the desired level of efficiency in public service.

Organizational Citizenship Behavior: Public service motivation is also associated with organizational citizenship behavior (OCB), which refers to discretionary actions by employees that go beyond their formal job requirements to benefit the organization and its stakeholders.

Intrinsic Motivation: Public service motivation taps into individuals’ inherent desire to make a positive difference in society. When public servants are intrinsically motivated by the value and impact of their work, they are more likely to be engaged, committed, and diligent in their efforts.

Commitment to Public Interest: Public service motivation emphasizes the commitment to the public interest over self-interest. Individuals with high levels of PSM prioritize the welfare of the community and the common good above personal gain.

Enhanced Work Ethic: Public service motivation is often associated with a strong work ethic and a sense of duty. Public servants with a high level of PSM are more likely to exhibit behaviors such as reliability, accountability, and a willingness to take on challenging tasks.

Public Service Values: PSM is closely linked to the endorsement of public service values such as fairness, transparency, and social justice. When individuals align their values with the goals and principles of public service, they are more likely to prioritize fairness in decision-making,
transparency in processes, and equitable distribution of resources.

Customer Orientation: Public servants with a high level of PSM often exhibit a strong customer orientation. They are motivated to provide quality services, respond to citizens’ needs, and address their concerns promptly.

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