Two of the issues consistently high on the list of priorities of non government organisations (NGOs) are staff performance and staff retention. In talking to various agencies in a number of developing countries, we have frequently heard the comment that they cannot sufficiently motivate staff or volunteers to perform as required or to stay in the organisation.
Broadly, this research report explores the various non-financial incentives used to motivate staff and volunteers.
A key finding from the research indicates that although there is broad variation in the incentives and activities used to motivate people, there is really one consistent hallmark: successful interventions are those which address the personal and professional needs of employees. The role of people and their centrality to organisational effectiveness and the achievement of the mission is of paramount importance and echoes the guiding principle from the People In Aid Code of Good Practice, namely that “People are central to the achievement of our mission”.
As derived from the research findings, here are some recommendations to the leaders and practitioners of NGOs operating in developing countries.
- Facilitate an organisational environment where employees feel valued, and receive necessary support to realise their potential by contributing to the development of organisational strategies, structures, and processes for improving the effectiveness of organisations.
- Ensure that organisations have HR strategies, policies, processes and procedures that focus on aligning employee objectives and organisational goals.
- Introduce culturally appropriate activities, incentives, and processes in the organisations to motivate employees.
- Proactively engage in dialogue with the employees to be aware of and manage their expectations keeping the organisational goals in view.
- Consider using a mix of suitable non-financial incentives to enhance employee motivation and organisational effectiveness.
The publication has been produced by People in Aid.
The full research report can be accessed here.
