Different work motivations of Thai and Japanese white-collar employees.

Abstract

The scope of this study is to explore differences in work motivations of Thai and Japanese employees based on Herzberg's two factor theory (1987). As today globalization leads to intense competition among organizations, companies need to gain competitive advantages as much as possible. Japan is the potential country with a good relationship with Thailand suitable for investment. Doing business internationally, understanding works motivation of employees is required. This study collected information about work motivations from Thai and Japanese employee group sample through questionnaire and interviewing method. The results show that, Japanese employees are mostly focused on intrinsic motivators while Thais are more focused on extrinsic motivators. In addition, salary is the factor that could motivate both of Thai and Japanese employees most. From the findings, managers can understand and adapt their company’s policies and strategy in human resource management for better employee’s motivation that would lead to better work performance, increase employee engagement, reduce turnover and greater company success.

KEY WORDS: Work Motivation/ Thai and Japanese Cross Cultural/ Herzberg's motivation theory/ Human resource management