Identification and Analysis of Individual Factors Influencing the Improvement of Government Employees’ Performance: A Qualitative Study in the Ministry of Sport and Youth

Abstract

This study aimed to identify and explain the individual factors contributing to improved employee performance in the Ministry of Sport and Youth based on the experiences and perspectives of knowledgeable experts, managers, and specialists. This applied study employed a qualitative grounded theory approach. The study population consisted of experts, managers, and specialists knowledgeable about employee performance within the Ministry of Sport and Youth. Participants were selected through purposive and snowball sampling, and recruitment continued until theoretical saturation was achieved. In total, 21 in-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted. Interview data were analyzed through open, axial, and selective coding, and MAXQDA software was used to organize and manage the qualitative data. The credibility of the findings was enhanced through repeated data review, constant comparison of codes, and participant validation of the interpretations. Qualitative analysis identified job motivation, organizational commitment and attachment, self-efficacy, professional skills and competencies, and emotional intelligence as the principal individual factors associated with employee performance. Motivation was strengthened when employees perceived their work as meaningful and socially influential, observed tangible outcomes of their efforts, participated in decision-making, and were given opportunities to present professional viewpoints and innovative ideas. In contrast, managerial instability, administrative bureaucracy, non-specialist interference, resource limitations, disregard for expert opinions, and ineffective reward systems emerged as major factors undermining motivation and performance. The findings further indicated that alignment between professional skills and job responsibilities, confidence in one’s capabilities, and the ability to manage interpersonal interactions and emotions contributed to more effective job performance. Improving employee performance in the Ministry of Sport and Youth requires simultaneous attention to individual capacities and the organizational conditions that support them. Providing opportunities for meaningful participation, strengthening the perceived value of work, developing professional competencies, supporting innovation, and improving motivational mechanisms may therefore contribute to sustainable enhancement of employee performance.