What does Expectancy (E) in Vroom's Expectancy Theory represent?

Expectancy (E) in Vroom's Expectancy Theory specifically represents the belief that one's efforts will lead to successful performance, which is then associated with achieving a desired outcome. This concept highlights the relationship between effort and performance; the stronger this belief, the more likely an individual is to exert effort towards their tasks.

The correct interpretation connects to the idea that if individuals believe their efforts will result in achieving their goals, they are more motivated to work hard. In this framework, motivation is influenced not only by the expectation that effort leads to performance but also by the expectation that performance will lead to rewards.

While the belief that hard work leads to rewards is important, it doesn’t encapsulate the specificity of Expectancy (E) since this concept involves the crucial link between effort and performance itself. Without that belief in performance as a direct outcome of effort, motivation could falter, regardless of how enticing the rewards may be. Thus, the central focus of Expectancy is accurately depicted through the lens of this performance perception.