Whitcoulls:Engendering commitment and loyalty of part-time employees within Whitcoulls.

Abstract

Very little is known about part-time employee characteristics, their level of organisational commitment, general work attitudes, behaviour patterns and reasons for working part-time (Skinner, 1999; Still, 1983). However, the rapid growth of the part-time workforce, specifically in the service sector – notably in retail – has lead to the reappraisal of attitudes that have misrepresented this alternative form of employment. It is the aim of this project to identify the issues relating to commitment and loyalty of part-time employees within Whitcoulls branches throughout the South Island. The intention is to provide Whitcoulls with insights from my research, to engender part-time employee commitment and loyalty. The research methodology involved quantitatively surveying the total population of Whitcoulls' South Island part-time employees. An overall response rate of 68% was achieved. Data analysis involved coding and inputting the questionnaire responses into an SPSS (Statistical Product and Service Solutions) database. Frequency and percentage tables were then created, of which cross tabulations were developed, leading to the production of key findings, conclusions and recommendations. The survey results show Whitcoulls to be a good employer and good place to work. Satisfaction and commitment levels among part-time employees are very high. Recommendations have been made regarding part-time employee perceptions of satisfaction and commitment levels at Whitcoulls; employment related issues; training and development; and interpersonal and social issues. It is the intention of this project, that these recommendations might help Whitcoulls engender commitment and loyalty of part-time employees within Whitcoulls. The Recommendations are as follows: