The motivational factors impacting upon employees in the non-profit sector: A collective case study in Edinburgh

Abstract

Purpose: The research aims to analyse and critically explore current motivational theories in relation to employees in the non-profit sector. This study will compare the existing literature to non-profit workplace settings, in order to gain an understanding on what promotes and hinders non-profit employee motivation. Design/ Methodology/ Approach: This study implemented a mixed-methods approach consisting of 37 lower-level employee questionnaire responses and a further 4 managerial interview responses. Findings: The main findings within this research study was the significant relationship between non-profit employees and intrinsic motivational factors; findings which are also key within the literature in this field. Findings of greatest importance within this study, proved to be a personal sense of accomplishment, staff engagement and commitment to the working cause, amongst the non-profit employee respondents. Limitations: The researcher's involvement in the interpretation of results presents a lack of impartibility within the results and discussion. Furthermore, the sample size of both the questionnaires and interviews were small, impinging on the generalizability of the findings. Implications: Non-profit managers are required to understand motivation of their staff, particularly when operating in resource-restricted environment such as that of a nonprofit. Understanding employee behaviour ensures both parties, managers and subordinates, operate as a satisfied, effective working team.