Coming Soon: Bain Book

The Archetype Effect

The Archetype Effect

Unlocking the Six Types of Motivation at Work

By James Root

The Archetype Effect

Based on an extensive global research program conducted in nineteen countries around the world, surveying more than forty-eight thousand people, The Archetype Effect delivers a new framework to understand and cater to worker motivators across roles, industries, and organizations. This book shows how workers can be classified into six major archetypes based on their motivations, and describes how recent disruptions, such as gig work, remote work, and AI-assisted automation are impacting worker motivators overall.

The archetypes discussed in this book include:

  • Givers: Driven by helping others, thrive in collaborative environments
  • Operators: Value stability and teamwork, prefer clear instructions and minimal risks
  • Explorers: Seek variety, creativity, and new experiences, prefer flexibility and innovation
  • Artisans: Motivated by mastery and pride in their work, prefer autonomy and focus on quality
  • Strivers: Ambitious and career-oriented, motivated by recognition and advancement
  • Pioneers: Visionary and entrepreneurial, driven by creating and often leading new ventures

The Archetype Effect is an enlightening read for anyone wanting a new way to understand what motivates them at work every day, or looking for a language to talk about current role, future choices, and career options with their firm. It is also for all leaders seeking to apply these insights across an organization to increase employee wellbeing, performance, and retention.

Meet the Author

Meet the Author

James Root

James Root is a senior partner at Bain & Company and Chair of Bain Futures. He is the author of The Archetype Effect, which offers readers a new way to understand what motivates them at work every day, and why they feel how they feel about their job.

During his more than 30 years at Bain, living and working across Europe, North America, and Asia, he has served as Managing Director of Bain New York; as the leader of the Asia Pacific Organization Practice; and as Chairman of Bain's Nominating Committee.

Connect with James

Quiz: What Type of Worker Are You?

It’s time to stop talking about the mythical “average worker” and start understanding what individuals really want from a job. Our six archetypes help make sense of people’s many and varied attitudes toward their work.

Find your archetype

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