Exploring site operatives’ motivation in the construction industry in Ghana the relevance of expectancy theory of motivation

Abstract

Motivation is a force directing specific behavioral alternatives, which are suggested when deciding among behavior options. Individuals select the option with the highest motivational forces. Lack of workers’ motivation on construction sites has been identified as one of the main contributory factors in high employee turnover. This has been a result of the difficulties in emphasizing the positive side of worker motivation and meeting their expectations. The aim of the study was to explore site operatives’ motivation in the construction industry in Ghana by examining the relevance of expectancy theory of motivation. The research adopted a quantitative strategy in line with a cross sectional survey design. The target population of the study comprised tradesmen of D1K1, D2K2, and D3K3 construction firms within the Accra Metropolis. Purposive sampling technique was adopted to select tradesmen who could respond to the questionnaire items without much guidance. The findings of the study suggest that the core factors that influence site operatives’ expectation of motivation and related performance include; level of expectation of motivation, the type of reward expected, and the magnitude of the reward. Also, the study identified that construction site workers were motivated by good job security, nature of attractive remuneration, opportunity for training and promotions, occupational education, allowances and other fringe benefits although these aspects were woefully lacking among the majority of the construction firms studied. Finally, the study revealed that there was a positive association between the main factors of motivation which include; expectancy, instrumentality, valence and site operatives’ performance. A model has been developed based on the findings of the study.