REDUCING TURNOVER BY MOTIVATION

Abstract

The study seeks to identify the needs and expectation of people at work, identify the major theories of motivation and evaluate their relevance to work situation, ascertain the relationship between motivation, job satisfaction, and work performance, and ascertain the factors that affect job satisfaction in the workplace.

The study was carried out primarily through the survey method and interview of employees in three public sector organizations in Nigeria. Secondary data were obtained through books, journals, and internet. Findings indicate that economic rewards, intrinsic satisfaction, and social relationship are the needs and expectation of people at work.

Maslow’s need hierarchy, McClelland’s motivation theory, expectancy theory and goal setting theory are the major motivation theories.There is a significant relationship between motivation, job satisfaction and work performance. Nature of the work, ones interest in the job, personal growth and development, and style of leadership would affect job satisfaction.

Employee motivation is essential towards the success of any organisation: motivated employees are happy, productive, and committed. Human resources are essential to the prosperity, productivity, and performance of any organisation. Motivation is the key and a source which provides an environment where optimal performance is possible. Employee incentive programme is the key which promotes workplace harmony, employee performance and motivation. Motivated employees are likely retained and they ensure company loyalty.

Employee incentive programme offers rewards for outstanding performance, hard work or result: Employees who meet targets or go beyond targets are rewarded for their efforts. To maximize employee motivation through employee incentives, it is necessary to discuss the programme with the employees. Find out what motivates them and how they would want to be rewarded for productive performance.

Positive behaviours and achievements of the employees should be recognized. Increase motivation by recognizing excellence in the workplace.

Keywords: Motivation, Turnover, job satisfaction, and work performance