What principle emphasizes that if an individual puts in a good effort, they can expect a correspondingly good performance?

The principle that emphasizes the connection between an individual's effort and their performance is known as Expectancy Theory. This theory suggests that individuals are motivated to act in a certain way based on the expected outcomes of their actions. Specifically, it proposes that if a person perceives that their effort will lead to a desired level of performance, they are more likely to exert that effort.

Expectancy Theory is underpinned by the belief that successful performance results from both the level of effort and the individual's expectation that this effort will indeed lead to the anticipated performance outcome. Therefore, when individuals believe that their hard work will be rewarded with good performance, they are more motivated to engage in the necessary effort.

This principle stands in contrast to other theories mentioned. For instance, Equity Theory focuses on fairness and the balance of input and output between individuals, rather than purely on the relationship between effort and performance. Motivation Theory encompasses a broader range of factors influencing motivation beyond just effort and performance. Reinforcement Theory centers on how behavior can be shaped through rewards or consequences but does not specifically address the expectation of performance based on effort.

By understanding Expectancy Theory, supervisors can better motivate their teams by ensuring that employees feel confident that their hard work will lead to positive results.