Giving an employee a promotion would satisfy which Maslow need?

• A. Belonging and social needs
• B. Physiological needs
• C. Esteem needs
• D. Transcendence

Answer: (C)

Esteem needs are about respect, status, recognition, and a sense of accomplishment. Giving a promotion publicly acknowledges an employee’s performance and increases their responsibility, which signals to them and others that they are competent and valued. This recognition boosts self-esteem and earns respect from colleagues, directly satisfying the esteem level of Maslow’s hierarchy. It’s not primarily about basic survival needs (physiological), nor is it about forming social bonds (belonging), and it isn’t about higher spiritual or transcendent concerns. So the promotion best aligns with and satisfies esteem needs.