Motivating Professional Researchers to Reduce Turnover in Gauteng and the Western Cape Provinces in South Africa

Abstract

The objective of this study is to determine whether there is a significant correlation between motivational factors and labour turnover. Retaining Research and Development experts has been recognised as a critical managerial challenge for many technology-based companies in South Africa. Intrinsically motivated employees engage in tasks for the pleasure they derive from them, whereas extrinsically motivated employees engage in tasks for the rewards that follow from completing these. It is critical that employers ensure employees are effectively attracted, motivated and retained. It is also of importance that employees should have a comprehensive understanding of the business strategy, together with an aligned human resources strategy as well as policies and procedures. The management team together with the human resources department needs to ensure continually that employee stimuli are relevant and appropriately applied. Effective and on-going communication with employees is vital through, for example, employee surveys or focus groups or information-sharing sessions. The method employed by this study comprised a quantitative, self-report survey design (N=260). Statistical analysis included both descriptive and inferential statistics. Recommendations are made to managers with guidelines for increasing employee motivation, managing turnover and designing effective policies to maintain the situation.

DOI: 10.5901/mjss.2014.v5n27p1145