THE IMPACT OF MOTIVATION ON EMPLOYEE PRODUCTIVITY IN THE HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY: A CASE STUDY OF VILLA MARINA HOTEL, EKET, AKWA IBOM STATE

CHAPTER ONE INTRODUCTION 1.1 Background to the Study The term "motivation" originates from the word "movers," which essentially means "to move." According to Lang (2020), motivation refers to the process of encouraging individuals with specific incentives that lead them to act in a predictable manner. Motivation can stem from two primary sources: extrinsic and intrinsic. Extrinsic motivation involves engaging in a task not for the activity itself, but for the outcomes it produces. These outcomes may include salary, productivity, and a favorable working environment. Examples of external rewards within a workplace context include monetary compensation and promotions offered by employers or colleagues (Pinder, 2022). On the other hand, intrinsic motivation is driven by the internal satisfaction that comes from performing an activity for its own sake. This type of motivation arises naturally from the job itself and the enjoyment it brings. Brown, Barbara B. (2019) describes intrinsic motivation as being linked to feelings of recognition, gratitude, accomplishment, and success in tasks such as passing exams. Brown et al. (2019) emphasize that it is important for employees to be motivated in order to understand the significance of their work. This helps explain why individuals report to work and strive to perform well. A key role of managers is to foster a work environment where employees can carry out their responsibilities efficiently while contributing to organizational goals. This supportive atmosphere must be cultivated by management (London, M., & Bray, D. W, 2018). Employees differ in their skills and the factors that motivate them (Cole, G., 1997). One approach that management adopts to improve employee effectiveness is by instilling motivation among staff members (Cherian & Jacob, 2018). An employee's performance is partly influenced by their abilities and significantly by their level of motivation. It is therefore essential for the human resource manager to promote job commitment within the organization, which can only be achieved through effective motivation strategies. Employees tend to be more motivated in settings where they are encouraged to participate, feel a sense of accomplishment, are recognized for their contributions, benefit from clear communication, and have access to professional development and career advancement opportunities. Motivation plays a critical role in enhancing performance; hence, understanding what motivates employees is vital to achieving improved results. Demirel et al. (2020) underscore the importance of this by conducting research on how employee motivation impacts productivity, focusing on a case study involving private banks under the Kurdistan Regional Government (Saraih & Sultan, 2018). 1.2 Statement of the Problem Organizations exist primarily to deliver services to the public. To fulfill this mandate, they employ individuals who are expected to be productive. However, to ensure this productivity, employees must be motivated. Addressing their needs is crucial so that they develop the enthusiasm to work (Saraih & Sultan, 2018). A significant issue arises when workers feel demotivated and choose to leave their positions, which can be costly for employers due to the time and resources required to hire replacements. This study aims to examine the connection between employee motivation and performance output to identify potential strategies for minimizing such costs. 1.1Objectives of the study The general objective of the study is to examinethe impact of motivation on employee productivity in the hospitality industry: a case study of villa marina hotel, Eket . Specifically, the study will be guided by the following: i.To investigate if company goals have impact on the productivity of staff in hospitality industry. ii.To analyze if monetary factors have effect on staff productivity in the hospitality industry. iii.To explore if recognition and reward programs have influence on employee productivity. iv.To find out the extent to which motivation can lead to staff retention. 1.2Research questions The following questions have been prepared for the study i.Do company goals have an impact on the productivity of staff in the hospitality industry? ii.Does monetary factors have an effect on the staff productivity in the hospitality industry? iii.Does recognition and reward programs influence staff productivity? iv.What is the extent to which motivation can lead to staff retention? 1.3Significant of the study The findings of this study would benefit to the administration of the hospitality industry in Eket. The research would add to the current know how on the effects of motivation on employee performance. It will also be helpful to upcoming scholars who would be researching on the field of motivation and worker performance. The research would also help the entire hospitality sector to be more informed on the practice best suited for motivating their employees. 1.6 Scope of the study The study will investigate if goals impact the productivity of staff in hospitality industry. The study will also analyze if monetary factors have effect on the staff productivity in the hospitality industry. The study will further explore the extent to which recognition and reward programs impact the employee productivity. Lastly, the study will find out the extent to which motivation can lead to staff retention. Hence this study will be delimited to Villa marina hotel, Eket, Akwa Ibom 1.7 Limitations of the study Like in every human endeavour, the researchers encountered slight constraints while carrying out the study. Insufficient funds tend to impede the efficiency of the researcher in sourcing for the relevant materials, literature, or information and in the process of data collection (internet, questionnaire, and interview), which is why the researcher resorted to a moderate choice of sample size. More so, the researcher will simultaneously engage in this study with other academic work. As a result, the amount of time spent on research will be reduced. 1.8 Definition of terms Motivation: a reason or reasons for acting or behaving in a particular way. Staff productivity: the amount of work (or output) produced by an employee in a specific period of time Hospitality: the friendly and generous reception and entertainment of guests, visitors, or strangers