Exploring turnover intentions of employees at a South African government education council
Loading...
Authors
Matjie, Mokgata Alleen
Selesho, Refilwe Argentina
Issue Date
2024-01-12
Type
Article
Language
en
Keywords
Turnover , Turnover intentions , Employee turnover , Government education council , Education council
Alternative Title
Abstract
Orientation: Public sector organisations in South Africa, including educational institutions,
experience high employee turnover. There is a general need for public sector organisations to
retain valuable talent.
Research purpose: This study aimed to explore the reasons behind turnover intentions at the
government education council.
Motivation for the study: Studies on employee turnover in the public sector focused on
government departments and municipalities, with a scarcity of research studies on government
education councils.
Research approach/design and method: An exploratory qualitative research approach was
followed which allowed for the usage of semi-structured interviews to collect data from
employees (N = 11). Data were analysed using content analysis. The inductive coding method
was used to get to themes and subthemes.
Main findings: Employees may leave the government education council because of the
micromanagement leadership styles, lack of trust by management, inadequate communication,
poorly implemented performance management system, persistent workload, low pay and
lack of work–life balance. However, they currently remain within the employment of the
council because of its reputation, sense of belonging (teamwork), conducive work environment
and career growth prospects.
Practical/managerial implications: The government education council should promote
autonomy and prioritise leadership skills, team building and other interventions to enhance
trust, communication and work-life balance. The government education council should
ensure the buy-in of the performance management system and its remuneration policy by
employees.
Contribution/value add: This study’s findings provide insights into the turnover intentions of
employees at the government education council and then assist the organisation in
strengthening its retention strategies.
Description
Citation
Selesho, R.A., & Matjie, M.A. (2024). Exploring turnover intentions of employees at a South African government education council. SA Journal of Human Resource Management/SA Tydskrif vir Menslikehulpbronbestuur, 22(0), a2251. https://doi. org/10.4102/sajhrm. v22i0.2251
Publisher
SA Journal of Human Resource Management
License
Journal
Volume
Issue
PubMed ID
DOI
ISSN
2071-078X,