A strategy for employee motivation : the case of the North West Department of Education

Abstract

This study set out to examine the phenomenon of employee motivation in the North West Department of Education. The study argues that the performance of employees to achieve organisational goals is influenced by the level of employee motivation. The study identified that employees are influenced by both intrinsic and extrinsic factors. These factors have a positive or negative influence on the motivation of employees. The factors identified include the work environment, the performance management and development system, job design, employee involvement, organisational culture and commitment and human relations. A literature study was undertaken to provide a framework through which the importance of the study is highlighted. The literature study reviewed motivation theories that explain the effect of motivation on the behaviour of employees. The mixed research method of collecting and analysing the data, including the use of a semi-structured questionnaire, was used during the research process. The findings of the study show that the motivation levels of employees are varied in relation to factors that influence the motivation of employees. There is therefore evidence in the study that employees are motivated by different needs and therefore a more encompassing approach is required. The study also found that managers in the Department of Education did not put concerted efforts towards the motivation of employees, nor did they put effective programmes in place with regard to the same. In order to achieve the primary research objective, the study recommends that an integrated and comprehensive motivation strategy, that will influence the motivation of employees, be developed. The motivation strategy is perceived to address a number of challenges employees experience in the performance of their work. Recommendations for the implementation of the motivation strategy are presented in order to ensure an increase in the motivation of employees for effective and efficient employee performance. The study identifies areas for further research, which, if implemented, will increase the managers‟ knowledge of recognition schemes to enhance the performance levels of employees.