Remote working during the coronavirus disease 2019: exploring the motivation of employees in a human resource department in a renewable energy company in the Western Cape

Abstract

This study explores the motivation of employees in the Human Resource (HR) department of a renewable energy company based in the Western Cape during the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. As remote working became a necessity due to the pandemic, the research investigates how this sudden shift impacted the motivation of Human Resource Management Practitioners (HRMP). Informed by the theoretical framework of Bandura's Social Cognitive Theory, the study adopted a qualitative approach, using semi-structured interviews with HR team members to gather rich insights into their experiences and perceptions in terms of motivation during the pandemic. By applying Bloomberg and Volpe’s (2016) content data analytical technique, key themes emerged from the research around motivation, recognition and rewards, learning and development opportunities, and perceptions of the work environment and resources provided. The findings reveal that, while flexibility and autonomy associated with remote work were viewed positively, the importance of effective communication, continuous learning and well-being support was underscored. The study concluded that, to ensure sustained performance and well-being among employees, organisations needed to adopt a holistic approach with regard to employee motivation in remote work settings, thus balancing autonomy with structured support systems. This research contributes to an understanding of the dynamics involved in employee motivation in the context of remote work, offering valuable insights for HR departments and organisations endeavouring to optimise their post-pandemic remote working strategies. The findings underscore the importance of fostering a supportive and inclusive remote work environment to maintain long-term employee engagement and productivity. These insights are particularly relevant in terms of the renewable energy sector, where innovation and adaptability are critical attributes for success.