Examining Employee Motivation Through Empowerment: Hilton Case Study

This report investigates the relationship between employee empowerment and motivation, using Hilton as a case study. It begins with an introduction outlining the research objectives, which include determining the extent of empowerment, assessing its relationship to employee motivation, and identifying practical implications and methods of empowerment within the workplace. The study then reviews relevant literature on performance, empowerment, and their interconnectedness. The research methodology section details the descriptive research design, interpretivism philosophy, and data collection methods. The report also considers issues of validity, reliability, and ethical considerations. The findings, based on the analysis, will offer valuable insights into how empowerment strategies can be effectively implemented to enhance employee motivation and improve organizational performance within the hospitality sector. The report concludes with a discussion of limitations and potential areas for future research.

Research Methods
By (STU42006)
Submission deadline (13:59 UK time)
(Words: 2,812)

To examine the role of empowerment in
enhancing the employee motivation:
Case Study of Hilton
2

TABLE OF CONTENTS
TITLE .............................................................................................................................. 4
SUMMARY ......................................................................................................................4
Research objectives .................................................................................................... 4
Rationale of the study ..................................................................................................5
Proposal Structure .......................................................................................................5
LITERATURE REVIEW ...................................................................................................5
Performance ................................................................................................................5
Empowerment ..............................................................................................................6
Relationship between empowerment and motivation ..................................................7
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY .......................................................................................7
Research Design ......................................................................................................... 8
Research Philosophy ...................................................................................................8
Research Approach .....................................................................................................9
Research type ..............................................................................................................9
Data Collection Method.............................................................................................. 10
Sampling.....................................................................................................................10
Data Analysis..............................................................................................................11
Accessibility issues.....................................................................................................11
Validity, Reliability and Generalisability......................................................................12
Ethical Issues..............................................................................................................12
TIMESCALE ..................................................................................................................12
REFERENCES...............................................................................................................13
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TITLE
To examine the role of empowerment in enhancing the employee
motivation – case study of Hilton Organization
SUMMARY
Employees are the most important assets within an organization. They act as the
backbone for the business. In their absence it may be quite difficult for the company to
survive. When these people fall unhappy and demotivated, it creates an impact on the
business performance. Companies are required to take essential steps in order to
increase the effectiveness of the employees and to enhance the productivity. Any kind
of firm whether big size or small size, always expects from its workforce to deliver a high
quality performance. Every employer demands loyalty, commitment and hard work from
the people so that goals and objectives of the business can be attained (Aziz, 2008).
The job performance is actually the result of individual’s motivation and ability.
Motivation is the key to employee performance. Motivated persons are more
productive and profitable for the business. It is essential from the business point of view.
Once they are motivated, they tend to be more energetic. It makes them eager to
accept additional roles and responsibilities (Fernandez and Moldogaziev, 2013). The
motivation is of critical importance in today’s competitive work environment. It is
considered important because it has the power to give many competitive advantages for
the business.
Research objectives
The major aim of the research is to examine the role of empowerment in
enhancing the employee motivation. Following objectives have been framed for the
research:
 To find out the nature and extent of empowerment given to the employees in the
industry
 To assess the relationship between empowerment and employee motivation
 To study the practical implications of empowering workers at workplace
 To identify the methods how employees can empowered at the workplace

Rationale of the study
Within the hospitality industry it has been observed that low level of research
have been conducted in the field of human resource management. It is due to the
infantry nature of the tourism industry and deficits of experts in the field. Further the
advancements in the education, technology and professional skills have lead the
employers to believe that empowerment would be the better method of enhancing the
level of motivation. It has been observed that, an understanding of the work context
which facilitates empowerment has some important theoretical and practical
implications. In this case, the results of this study will be very helpful for a company in a
hospital industry in maintaining a desirable working environment.
Proposal Structure
The report structure for the research study will be as follows:
 Title – First of all an appropriate title for the research has been framed. The title
of the project is - To examine the role of empowerment in enhancing the
employee motivation – case study of Hilton Organization.
 Introduction – At this stage, all the key words related to the topic are analysed
and their meaning is understood. It covers the research background, rational and
aims & objectives of the study.
 Literature Review – This section consists of gathering relevant literature
pertaining to the subject so that an insight view of the research can be gained.
 Research Methodology – It mainly focuses on the methods and methodologies
which are used in carrying out the research.
 Limitations – This part focuses on identifying relevant drawbacks associated with
the study. These are taken as barriers which can restrict the researcher from
fulfilling its aim and objectives.
LITERATURE REVIEW
Performance
Performance on one hand has no such definition as such. It could be defined in
various manners as through by the people. It is to be noted that performance to one
person may not be the performance to another. It can be said that it consists of

motivation, one’s individual capability and the environment (Carlos, 2010). Performance
can be enhanced if all the above three factors are enhanced. In other words,
performance is something which depends on so many factors and it is the end result
which signifies something (Anwar and Zaidi, 2011).
Empowerment
Thorough review of the literature related to empowerment reveals many different
types of concepts and definitions. Although most of the definitions are in similar to the
fact that it is basically concerned with giving the workers the authority and freedom to
take decisions on their own. Hence the meaning of the same can be understood in the
following manner:
According to Singh and Dixit, (2011), it is a process of developing self-efficiency
among the employees through realizing the condition which can boosts their confidence
level. It is also about removing the formal business practices and adopting informal
ideas of working. However, in their attempt to describe empowerment argued that this
concept is more difficult than self-efficacy and it could not be defined in just one
dimensional construct.
Boudrias and et al (2009), state it is an intrinsic motivation which is comprised of
four perceptions. These include meaningfulness, impact, competence and self-
determination. It allows them to become more competent and self-determined towards
the goals and objectives of the business. In this way the intrinsic motivation works and
starts showing positive results for the company.
Angus, (2009), claims it is about involving the people in the decision making
process. In most of the organizations, it has been seen that usually the decision and
orders are taken by the Management and high level managers. However, at some
places, some of the valued employees are invited to take part in the decision making
process because management thinks that they are capable of rendering innovation
ideas for the business which can be implemented. But, it is evaluated by the Silva,
(2009) that the selection of people who will be involved in the decision making process
largely depends upon their skills. In this context, here people who posses immense
skills will be involved by the manager in the decision making process.

According to Hasan and Thamizhmanii, (2010), empowerment is about
encouraging the employees to take initiatives and some innovative steps which can be
very valuable for the company. It is a decision taken from the side of the management
to make sure that people retain for a long period of time and remain faithful towards
them.
Relationship between empowerment and motivation
Many researchers have highlighted the fact that employees become motivated
through empowerment. Delegating responsibilities among the people builds up the
confidence and appreciation level. They become quite excited by the fact that they are
getting a chance to show their capabilities. As a results they become motivated and try
to give their maximum contribution in their performance (Sim, 2010).
According to Silva, (2009), offering liberty to the employees in carrying out their
tasks and duties is a kind of motivation only. It increases their job satisfaction and they
start feeling that they are being considered as an important part of the company.
Ultimately, this provides many advantages for the business.
Boudrias and et al., (2009), empowerment is a good approach to build
confidence among the workers. These days, they remain conscious related their work
and responsibilities. Empowerment gives them the chance to take participation in the
activities and show their skills which can be very useful for the organization. However, it
is argued by the Anwar and Zaidi (2011) that it is not necessary that for all employees
empowerment is the only way which build up confidence among them. This is because,
some employees feels confident when firm makes signifiant measures with regard to
improve their skills and abilities in an effectual manner.
Singh and Dixit, (2011), claims that through empowerment, employees start
realizing that their jobs are meaningful and their contributions are of value to the
business. It increases their satisfaction and motivation related to the work they are
doing. Ultimately the work that is to be delivered is of very high quality and efficiency.
Fernandez and Moldogaziev (2013), empowerment is an effective strategy in
increasing the importance of the workforce in an organization. The strategy has the
potential to take out 100% commitment from them. As a result, there is increased loyalty
and motivation from the side of the individuals.

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
Research methodology focuses on the methods and methodologies which are
used to carry out the research. This section plays an important role in finding out how
the data is collected for the study. It includes research (design, philosophy, approach,
type, etc).
Research Design
It is related with developing a systematic plan for the study in order to investigate
an issue. It is regarded as the blue print which helps in collecting and analysing the data
related with the subject. There are different types of designs which can be applied by
the researcher (Kumar, 2010). These includes descriptive, explorative, experimental,
meta-analytic etc.
For this research, descriptive design will be applied because the topic needs
exploration of an issue which has been investigated already by so many researchers.
The design is used when the researcher wants to examine behaviour of humans in a
particular environment. This research examines the human behaviour in an
organization’s culture. Hence in this way it can be said that descriptive design is very
appropriate for this study.
Research Philosophy
The philosophy reflects the important assumptions of the researcher and these
assumptions are taken as the base for the research strategy. It consists of many
branches related to a wide range of disciplines. There are two main contrasting
research philosophies that are positivism and interpretivism. Positivism philosophy
focuses on the facts, causalities and fundamental laws which are to be researched. The
phenomenon is to be reduced to the simplest elements. It is also applicable in large size
samples (Singh and Dixit, 2011).
While on the other side, interpretivism integrates human interest into a study.
This philosophy is of the view that realities can be accessed only through social
constructions like language, shared meanings, consciousness etc. It mainly focuses on
the meaning and makes use of multiple methods in order to reflect different aspects of
the issue.

For this research, interpretivism philosophy will be used because it will help in
analysing the issue in the natural environment. The major benefit is that it helps in
determining the thoughts of the individuals and their actions (Denscombe, 2002). The
philosophy is also very useful in carrying out an in-depth analysis of the selected topic
under study. This study also tries to identify the impact of employee empowerment on
employee motivation. Hence it can be said that this philosophy is appropriate for this
research. The philosophy will also help in drawing an effective conclusion for the
particular study. But, the subjective nature of interpretivisim approach proves as the
biggest disadvantage. This is because, the data collected through the given philosophy
cannot be generalized as it is highly influenced through the personal viewpoints and
values.
Research Approach
It is important to discuss about the research approach as it is considered as the
vital part of the study. It can be divided into two types that is inductive and deductive.
The main different between the two can be noted down in the following manner:
Inductive Deductive
 The principles are based on scientific
theory
 Movement is done from theory to data
 Casual relationships between the
variables are established
 The concepts are operationalized to
reflect the clarity of the definitions
(Lodico, Spaulding and Voegtle, 2010).
 Measures of control are applied for
maintaining the validity
 Highly structured approach is followed
 Size of the sample is restricted in order
to generalize the research conclusions
 The relation between human
attachment with the events are
explored
 The research context is understood in
a deep manner
 More flexible approach to research
structure is followed in order to
facilitate provision for changes during
the study
 The researcher himself is considered
as a part of the process (Edmond and
Hayler, 2013).
 The findings do not have to generalized

For this study, inductive approach has been applied as it will address the
objectives of the research in appropriate manner. The explanations will be developed on
the basis of questionnaire approach. Further it is appropriate because the sample size
is small and it is restricted in order to generalize the research conclusions. But, by using
the given approach relationship between event and phenomenon cannot be established
by the scholar.
Research type
It defines the framework of the research that is the nature of the study. There are
mainly two kinds of research types which includes qualitative, quantitative and mixed.
The qualitative type is related with dealing with theoretical concepts and models. The
data which is collected is subjective in nature. The qualitative information is evaluated
through tools such as direct observation, focus groups, thematic coding etc.
Second type is quantitative under which data is presented in form of figures,
graphs, charts and calculations. The results of quantitative data are analysed through
techniques such as SPSS, Excel, descriptive statistics etc. Here the results which are
presented are more of objective in nature (Olsen, 2011).
For this study both qualitative as well as quantitative type has been adopted,
because it is the requirement of the subject. Under the qualitative type, it will talk about
the concepts and theories which are related with subject of employee empowerment.
While under the quantitative type, the collected data will be analysed through statistical
tools and in form of graphs, figures etc.
Research strategy
It depicts about the way of carrying out the study upon the specific topic. In this
context, there are different type of research strategies assessed and it consists of
survey, case study and experiment etc. But, for the present study survey research study
will be used. This is because, with the help of given strategy detailed analysis of the
selected topic can be carried out by the researcher. As a result of aims and objectives of
the study will be met.

Data Collection Method
Data Collection is the most crucial and important activity of the entire research.
The goals and objectives of the study can be achieved only through application of
appropriate collection methods. It is evident that there are two types of data (primary
and secondary) data. Primary data is regarded as the first hand information which is
collected for the first time and which is unprocessed in nature. It is very raw and fresh
and needs filtration (Collis and Hussey, 2003). It can be collected through methods such
as questionnaire, survey, focus groups, interview, observation etc. For this study,
primary data will be collected by the technique of questionnaire process from the
sample of 50 employees of Hilton Hotel.
Secondary data is the information available from published sources. It is
available for use by anyone. For this research, secondary knowledge will be compiled
from sources such as books, journals, newspapers, magazines etc. It is to be noted that
all secondary information will be compiled from valid and authentic sources (Karakoc,
2009).
Primary data offers strength to the research because it aids in rendering up to
data and latest information about the investigation subject. However the method
involves high expenses and is a time consuming method also. The problem with the
secondary data is that it could be misleading and wrong also.
Sampling
Sampling is the process of selecting the representative sample for the study.
Sampling is performed to make the data collection process easier and simpler.
Sampling aids in dividing the population into smaller numbers so that data can be
collected from sample in desired manner. In this regard, there are two types of sampling
i.e. probability and non-probability techniques. In probabilistic sampling, each of the
member of population possesses equal opportunity whereas equal chances are not
possessed in non-probabilistic sampling (Punch, 2009). In present study, data is
collected by the employees of Hilton and they exist in huge numbers. Therefore, it is
required to develop small sample that possess each quality of the population. For this
purpose, non-probabilistic sampling is employed in which convenient technique is
engaged. In mentioned technique, data is collected as per the convenient and comfort

of the researcher and participants. Here, sample size is determined as 50 employees
that can be of any department of the mentioned company. This is been taken into
account because employees are quite busy in their schedule and they also do not get
much time to participate in the research. Therefore, their convenience is given high
priority so that appropriate data can be collected (Scruggs and Masotropieri, 2006).
Data Analysis
After collecting data, it is required to analyse the same so that finding can be
drawn from it. In this context, qualitative and quantitative are two technique that can be
applied for developing results out of the data. Since, present study will accumulate data
from 50 employees of Hilton with the help of questionnaire, quantitative measures will
be applied. In this regard, SPSS method will be used to apply varied statistical test on
the data in order to attain actual findings from it. In the present study, SPSS methods
such as correlation and cross tabulation will be used. Here, quantitative data is
proposed because results attained from it are highly relevant as compared to qualitative
analysis. This is so because quantitative techniques consider the number and present
results that can be measured and further interpreted to develop sound conclusion
(Kothari, 2004). This will essentially help in gaining appropriate and effectual results that
will leads to attainment of research objectives in every sense.
Accessibility issues
In this research, main issue will arise while collecting data from employees as
most of them possess busy schedule and hectic work. Due to this, they are not be
capable of sharing their spacious time. This can affect the whole research process. To
address the same, permission will be taken from top officials so that required data can
be collected.
Validity, Reliability and Generalisability
While conducting this research, efforts will be considered on validity and
reliability aspects. In this regard, data will be collected from authentic source only so
that reliable information can be attained. This is done in order to gather the valid data
from about the selected topic under study. In this context, ISBN no. and copyright will be

checked prior reviewing the data. In addition to it, data prior to year 2005 will not be
accessed in order to ensure reliability. This is done, with an aim to assemble the latest
information about the selected topic. Moreover, no manipulation and biasness from the
data that attained from the employees of Hilton as it can affect the research conclusion
(Lewis and et. al., 2004). As far as generalisability is considered, conclusion attained
from this research can be applied in hospitality sector as it is. However, same results
may not be applicable wholly in other sector of the economy and hence appropriate
alternation may be required in the research. Hence, results of the research are confined
till hospitality sector only.
Ethical Issues
Ethic is required in the study in order to develop heathy contact with research
participants and also to safeguard their interest. In this regard, data will be stored in
secured manner and same will be accessed by authentic individual only. Further, data
will be destroyed once the research gets completed in every sense. Moreover, data will
be used for research purpose only and same will not be shared by any third party of
other company. Additionally, no biasness will be made while collecting and analysing
the data as it can affect whole research outcome (Edmond and Hayler, 2013). In
addition to this, the researcher will thoroughly inform the aims and objectives of the
company to the respective sample. Through this way only, scholar will comply with all
the ethics associated with the present study.
TIMESCALE
ACTIVITY/WEEK 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
Identified the problem
Systematic analysis to choose the
topic for the study
Chose the research
Conduct literature review for
secondary data collection
Set the objectives

Primary data collected from
customers
Identified research approach
Design research methodology
Preparation of structured
questionnaire
Make Fill up the questionnaire from
customers
Organize collected data in excel
sheets
Apply suitable technique to analysis
data
Interpretation of the data
Evaluation and finding of the research
Recommendation and suggestions for
further study
Outline the findings chapter
Create report in a presentable
manner
Submission to instructor and awaiting
for feedback
Revising the final draft
Submit report
Present report to the audience
REFERENCES
Books and Journals
Anwar, S. and Zaidi, F., 2011. Employee Empowerment And Its Impact On The Service
Quality. VDM Publishing.
Aziz, A. Y., 2008. The Effects of Emotional Dissonance and Employee’s Empowerment
on Service Quality and Customer Satisfaction Perception: Customer Level
Analysis. Int. Journal of Economics and Management. 2 (2). p.p. 237-258.
Boudrias, S. J. et al., 2009. Employee empowerment: From managerial practices to
employees' behavioral empowerment. Leadership & Organization Development
Journal. 30 (7). pp.625 – 638.

Carlos, P. J., 2010. Empowerment Takes More Than a Minute. Read
HowYouWant.com.
Collis, J. and Hussey, R., 2003. Business Research: a practical guide for undergraduate
and postgraduate students. 2nd Ed. Palgrave Macmillan.
Denscombe, M., 2002. Ground Rules for Good Research. Open University Press.
Edmond, N. and Hayler, M., 2013. Telling tales on either side of the teacher: methods of
researching professional and biographical transformations in the context of
Education. Reconceptualizing Educational Research Methodology. 4 (1).
Hasan, S. and Thamizhmanii, S., 2010. A review on an employee empowerment in
TQM practice. Journals. 39 (2).
Karakoc, N., 2009. Employee Empowerment and Differentiation in Companies: A
Literature Review and Research Agenda. Macrothink Institute. 1 (2).
Kothari, R. C., 2004. Research Methodology: Methods and Techniques. New Age
International.
Kumar, R., 2010. Research Methodology: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners. SAGE.
Lewis, G. W. and et. al., 2004. A Generative Research Methodology for Implementing
TQM in Small and Medium-sized Manufacturing Enterprises. Asian Journal on
Quality. 5 (2). pp.89 – 105.
Lodico, G. M., Spaulding, T. D. and Voegtle, H. K., 2010. Methods in Educational
Research: From Theory to Practice. 2nd Ed. John Wiley & Sons.
Olsen, W., 2011. Data Collection: Key Debates and Methods in Social Research.
SAGE.
Punch, F. K., 2009. Introduction to Research Methods in Education. SAGE.
Scruggs, E. T. and Masotropieri, A. M., 2006. Applications of Research Methodology.
Emerald Group Publishing.
Silva, S., 2009. Does Empowerment Motivate Employees in the Hospitality Industry.
GRIN Verlag.
Sim, M., 2010. The intangible costs of human-resource outsourcing. Human Resource
Management International Digest. 18(6). pp.3 – 4.
Singh, S. and Dixit K. P., 2011. Employee Empowerment : A Light on the Real Meaning
of the Philosophy. VSRD international journal of research. 1 (9). 587-593.
Online
Angus, C., 2009. Effective Employee Empowerment: 5 Strategies. [Online]. Available
through: <http://shiftack.com/effective-employee-empowerment-5-strategies>.
[Accessed on 30th November 2015].