EMPLOYEE MOTIVATION AND JOB PERFORMANCE: THE MODERATING ROLE OF PSYCHOLOGICAL CAPITAL AMONG TEACHING STAFF OF HO TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY

Abstract

This study explores the relationship between employee motivation and psychological capital (PsyCap), and job performance among academic teaching staff at Ho Technical University (HTU). The research aims to investigate how motivation and PsyCap influence job performance and whether PsyCap moderates the effect of motivation on performance. A quantitative research design was employed, using a structured questionnaire to collect data from 150 academic teaching staff at HTU. The data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and hierarchical regression to examine the relationships between employee motivation, psychological capital, and job performance. The sample was selected using convenience sampling, and Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software was used to conduct the analysis. The study found a strong positive relationship between employee motivation and job performance. It also revealed that psychological capital positively impacts job performance and moderates the relationship between motivation and performance. Employees with high levels of PsyCap were able to leverage their motivation more effectively, resulting in superior job performance. This underscores the importance of both motivation and psychological capital in enhancing performance in academic institutions. The findings suggest that organizations, particularly in the academic sector, should focus on developing comprehensive motivation strategies, such as recognition programs and professional development opportunities. Additionally, institutions should invest in building the psychological capital of employees through training interventions that enhance self-efficacy, optimism, hope, and resilience. This will not only improve job performance but also reduce employee turnover and foster a supportive work environment. This study contributes to the existing literature by examining the moderating x role of psychological capital in the relationship between motivation and job performance in an academic setting. The research provides valuable insights for policymakers and academic administrators seeking to enhance staff performance through targeted motivation and psychological capital development strategies.