Selected strategies for work motivation in some fast food Firms in Port Harcourt, Nigeria

Abstract

The study examined employers' strategies for workers' motivation in selected fast food companies in 
Port Harcourt. Specifically, the study identified the motivational techniques adopted by the fast food 
companies, examined the workers' perception on the motivational techniques used and ascertained the 
extent to which the motivational techniques enhance workers' performance. A sample of three fast food 
companies was chosen. They included Mr. Biggs, Tantalizers and Best-Bite. In each of these 
companies, opinions of one hundred workers were sought giving a total of 300 respondents. Data 
percentages, means scores, regression analysis and analysis of variance. The results were collected by 
the use of structured questionnaires, and the data were analysed using established prompt payment of 
salary (85.3%), job rotation/ shift duty (95%), good working environment (95%), gift and material benefit 
outside regular salary (95%) as the most effective motivational techniques used. These factors agreed 
with the perception of the workers on the motivational tools that enhance workers' performance. The 
result reveals also that a unit increase in motivational tools increases workers' performance showing 
positive relationship. There was significant difference in the motivational techniques used by the three 
fast food companies at P<0.05. The study recommended, among others, that in addition to prompt 
payment of salary, the salary of the workers should be increased to motivate and enhance workers' 
performance considering the economic melt-down that have affected the prices of goods and services 
globally.