HOW TO MOTIVATE THE STARS? - A qualitative study on how to retain high potential employees

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this research is to examine the factors that make high potential employees motivated and satisfied in their working life. The aim is to investigate these factors so that companies can retain high potential employees, in order to stay competitive in the constantly changing business environment. Theory: This research is based on theories in the fields of Retention Management, Job Satisfaction and Employee Motivation. Several prominent theories within the fields have been used in order to cover different perspectives, which are of value in answering the research question of this project. Method: A qualitative approach has been used. The research has been conducted at an international company in the constructing industry, which in this research will be anonymous. Primary data have been gathered based on fifteen semistructured interviews with employees. The participating respondents have all been identified by the company as high potential employees. Result: Retention strategies such as non-financial benefits, training & development programs and a present and committed management are strategies that the company can execute in order to retain high potential employees. Response and recognition, independence and the ability to have influence in the company, as well as being given new challenges, have been identified as the most prominent requirements for job satisfaction and motivation. Moreover are their differences in the extent of needs between high potential employees depending on employment time and profession level.