How can I compare Maslow's and Herzberg's theories?

Before comparing both theories, you should define and provide a brief explanation of both. For Maslow's hierarchy of needs, always start by drawing the hierarchy in the shape of a pyramid (Self-actualisation, Esteem, Social, Safety and Basic/Physiological needs). You should then make sure you cover all parts of the theory; each individual should be satisfied at lower levels in order to progress to higher levels and once a level is satisfied, the individual will not longer be motivated by it. Always talk about the limitations as well; the theory assumes that individuals have the same priorities in terms of which needs to fulfil first. For Herzberg's theory, you should explain that dissatisfaction and motivation come from two factors; motivators (e.g achievement and recognition) and hygiene/maintenance factors (e.g work conditions, pay and personal life), it is important to state that hygiene factors cannot motivate, but can only prevent dissatisfaction and thus they need to be addressed before motivators can be effective. Once again, limitations must be addressed as well; job satisfaction is subjective and Herzberg's two-factor theory ignores external factors.After this, you should find the similarities and the differences between Maslow's and Herzberg's theories of motivation. In terms of similarities; they are both based on hierarchies in which lower levels must be fulfilled in order to move up the hierarchy and on the fact that individuals behave as they do in an attempt to fulfill internal needs. However, there are differences between the two; according to Maslow, all needs can be motivators while for Herzberg, only motivator factors can motivate. So, to conclude, the main difference between the two is that Maslow's theory refers to satisfaction based on fulfilling human needs, while Herzberg's theory is based on internal rewards.