IMPACT OF COVID-19 CRISIS ON EMPLOYEE MOTIVATION

Michelle Rivera
Josephine Sosa-Fey
Texas A&M University-San Antonio

ABSTRACT

Employee motivation encompasses the attitudes, behaviors, and involvement employees
contributes to their organization. Factors that influence employee motivation include intrinsic and
extrinsic rewards, such as recognition, job security, advancement opportunities, financial
rewards, and finding value in work. The purpose of this paper is to analyze recent research to
determine if, and to what degree, a crisis like the COVID-19 pandemic has an impact on employee
motivation. Results from various studies indicate that the factors that motivate employees were
affected by the crisis that, consequently, influenced a shift in employee motivation. The results
suggest that when managers take an active role in improving employee morale and motivation
during a time of crisis, such action greatly benefits both the employees as well as the organization.
Keywords: COVID-19, employee motivation encompasses, attitudes, behaviors, organization.