Unveiling Business Motives

Businesses often get pigeonholed as being all about money and profit, a view entrenched in popular belief. But delve a tad deeper, and it’s evident it’s different beneath the surface. It’s not just about financial gain; status, self-image, and control over others play pivotal roles. Let’s unpack these elements.

Is Status the Real Game?

Why do individuals climb the corporate ladder or entrepreneurs strive for business success? Often, it’s the allure of status. Status offers social recognition, a sense of achievement, and often, a feeling of superiority. It’s a potent motivator, pushing individuals to seek other than just monetary rewards. In businesses, this quest for status can shape many decisions, from aggressive expansions to high-profile acquisitions.

Self-Image: Are We What We Achieve?

Self-image is intricately linked to career and business achievements. For many, their profession or company is not just a means of livelihood; it’s a reflection of who they are. This intertwining of self-identity with business success can drive individuals to pursue goals that bolster their self-image, often prioritising it over financial practicalities.

Control: More Than Just Being the Boss

The desire for control is a fundamental human trait. In the business realm, control transcends mere managerial oversight. It’s about influencing markets, shaping consumer preferences, and even impacting societal norms. This control provides a sense of power and agency, which can be more enticing than the financial benefits that come with it.

So, What’s the Bottom Line?

While financial gain is undeniably a central aspect of business, it’s not the whole story. The drive for status, the quest for a favourable self-image, and the desire for control are equally compelling forces. Understanding these motivations can offer a more holistic view of the business world, beyond the simplistic notion of profit-making.

In conclusion, businesses operate in a complex landscape where money, while important, isn’t the sole player. Status, self-image, and control are significant factors shaping business behaviours and decisions. Recognising this can lead to a deeper understanding of the dynamics at play in the business world.

Postscript

Most folks I’ve worked with act as if profit is the key purpose driving behaviours and decisions in their organisations. I invite everyone to take another look and consider whether that’s what’s really happening, despite what people say. Espoused theory vs theory-in-action (cf. Argyris) once again.