HOW DO PUBLIC SECTOR WORKERS IN THE ARAB SECTOR IN ISRAEL PERCEIVE THE ROLE OF MOTIVATION IN CONTRIBUTING TO ORGANIZATIONAL SUCCESS?

Taroub Musa

Abstract


This study identifies and explores the understanding of public sector workers in the Arab sector of Israel about the role of motivation as an aid to success at the organization level. Motivation is understood in a context of concern about levels of motivation (employee disengagement), favoritism, and systemic inequality. With this background, the study aimed to explore the understanding of motivation in a wide variety of workplace practices- including intrinsic (e.g., significance of work, passion, pride) and extrinsic (e.g., salary, promotion, recognition) motivation. This qualitative study consisted of semi-structured interviews with 40 purposefully selected participants. The thematic analysis revealed several elements linked to the concept of motivation, including: ethical and empathetic leadership, emotional and ethical meaning, recognition, fair rules and policies, etc.; however, demotivators were listed as bureaucratic barriers, limited advancement, and protektsia (favoritism/bias). It was concluded that if the motivation of Arab public sector workers is to maintain some level of motivation for continued work engagement, changes in ethical leadership, merit promotions, and establishing workplace policies around inclusivity and cultural competence are required. The study contributes theoretically to motivation research in public sectors, specifically in marginalized situations, and gives practical insight into implementing change for maintaining employee engagement and the success of institutions in the Arab public sector in Israel.

 

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Keywords


motivation, public sector, Arab sector in Israel, organizational success, intrinsic motivation, extrinsic motivation, job satisfaction, organizational commitment, protektsia, leadership, bureaucracy, employee engagement, institutional policy

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References


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DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.46827/ejsss.v11i4.2063

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