The Role of Empowerment in Enhancing Employee Motivation at Hilton

This report investigates the role of employee empowerment in enhancing motivation, using the Hilton organization as a case study. The study begins with an introduction outlining research objectives, including assessing the relationship between empowerment and employee motivation, and identifying methods to empower employees. A literature review explores key concepts such as performance and empowerment, followed by an examination of the relationship between the two. The research methodology section details the descriptive research design, interpretivism philosophy, and inductive approach. Data collection methods, sampling techniques, and data analysis strategies are also discussed. The report addresses validity, reliability, and ethical considerations, providing a comprehensive analysis of empowerment's impact on employee motivation within the hospitality industry.

To examine the role of empowerment in enhancing
the employee motivation:
Case Study of Hilton
1

TABLE OF CONTENTS
TITLE..............................................................................................................................................1
INTRODUCTION...........................................................................................................................1
Research objectives.....................................................................................................................1
Rationale of the study..................................................................................................................1
Proposal Structure........................................................................................................................2
LITERATURE REVIEW................................................................................................................2
Performance.................................................................................................................................2
Empowerment..............................................................................................................................3
Relationship between empowerment and motivation..................................................................3
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY....................................................................................................4
Research Design..........................................................................................................................4
Research Philosophy....................................................................................................................5
Research Approach......................................................................................................................5
Research type...............................................................................................................................6
Data Collection Method...............................................................................................................6
Sampling......................................................................................................................................7
Data Analysis...............................................................................................................................7
Accessibility issues......................................................................................................................8
Validity, Reliability and Generalisability....................................................................................8
Ethical Issues...............................................................................................................................8
TIMESCALE...................................................................................................................................9
REFERENCES..............................................................................................................................11
2

TITLE
To examine the role of empowerment in enhancing the employee motivation – case study of
Hilton Organization
INTRODUCTION
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 a loyalty, commitment, hard work etc., 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
1

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).
2

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 workin. 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.
According to Boudrias and et al., (2009), 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.
According to Angus, (2009), 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.
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 researcher have highlighted the fact that employees become motivated through
empowerment. According to, 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).
3

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.
According to 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.
According to Singh and Dixit, (2011), 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.
According to Fernandez and Moldogaziev (2013), empowering 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.
4

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 identifying the cause and effect relationship. 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.
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).
 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
5

 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
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.
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. It is 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
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 that is 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
6

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 doesn’t 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
7

of Hilton with the help of questionnaire, quantitative measures will be applied. In this regard,
SPSS will be used to apply varied statistical test on the data in order to attain actual findings
from it. 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. 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. Moreover, no manipulation and biasness will be done in 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
8

be made while collecting and analysing the data as it can affect whole research outcome
(Edmond and Hayler, 2013).
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
9

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.
10

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].
Fernandez , S. and Moldogaziev, T., 2013. Employee Empowerment, Employee Attitudes, and
Performance: Testing a Causal Model. [Online]. Available through:
<http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/puar.12049/abstract>. [Accessed on 30th
November 2015].
11