Gender differences and motivation in Lebanese family firms -

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this MHRM project is to investigate gender differences in motivation in the Lebanese workplace. Employee motivation was assessed in relation to the existing promotion system, perception of equity, instrumentality expectations, and job meaningfulness. Design-methodology-approach: A structured survey was designed and administered to a sample of Lebanese respondents working at Family Businesses. Findings: Significant differences were noticed in motivation between females and males. Females working in Lebanese family businesses are more motivated compared to males when the perceived equity and clarity of promotion systems are low to medium. However, as the equity and clarity of promotion system increase, males become more motivated compared to females. One explanation of this finding could be that males in the Lebanese Family Business expect more than females whereas, females are tolerant to inequity. The findings of the study have practical implications in the workplace. Originality-value: This study contributes to understanding gender differences in motivation within the Lebanese context. This study approached employees` motivation in terms of content, process and job design dimensions. This study fills a gap due to the scarcity of research addressing such gender differences in the Middle East Region. Keywords: Gender Differences, Employees` Motivation, Perception of Equity, Instrumentality Expectation, Job Meaningfulness, Lebanon, Family Businesses Paper Type: Research Paper.