The influence of management behaviour on work motivation within a financial services institution

Abstract

This study investigates the influence of management behaviour on work motivation within a financial services institution in South Africa. The highly competitive business environment is forcing organisations to improve their management practices in the hope of improving work motivation. It is evident that the way in which management behaves towards employees plays a crucial role in determining whether employees are motivated to deliver acceptable or, preferably, work of outstanding quality. Management practices that encourage, promote, and provide sound management behaviour contribute to positive work motivation, which ultimately enhances organisational performance (Darby & Wysocki, 2007; Lepak & Hong, 2009; Ozcelik, Langton, & Aldrich, 2008). This study used the raw data from an ad hoc employee satisfaction survey conducted by a large financial services institution in South Africa. The data were not collected specifically for this study; therefore secondary data were used. Owing to the nature of the research questions, a quantitative approach was followed. The aim of the study is to firstly determine employees’ perception of what ―good management practices are‖ within a financial services institution in South Africa. Secondly, to investigate the influence of management behaviour on work motivation of employees, and thirdly, to rank the controllable factors in management behaviour in order of importance based on the effect it has on work motivation. Data analysis in the form of descriptive statistics, correlation analysis and regression analysis were conducted and the results were compared to current management literature in order to generate sound recommendations to improve management practices. The results revealed seven crucial management behaviours that can be applied to drive employee work motivation. Previous research confirmed the importance of effective management and the impact on management behaviour on work activities (Keller, 2008). However, no previous research ranked these management behaviours in order of importance based on the effect it has on work motivation. This study can assist management in developing and implementing management practices that will deliver maximum results in terms of work motivation and, ultimately, performance.