Job motivation and satisfaction: Unpacking the key factors for charity shop managers

This paper explores the role of job characteristics and communication in relation to job motivation and satisfaction amongst UK charity shop managers. Analysis is based on 22 interviews with shop managers and a nationwide survey of 826 charity shop managers. In exploring job characteristics we find that managers exhibit low levels of satisfaction with factors such as pay, job status and working conditions. However, in exploring communication we find a form of ‘altruism payoff’ whereby managers’ dissatisfaction is ameliorated by the fulfilment gained from interpersonal relationships with other staff members and the knowledge that their efforts are benefiting a charitable cause. In closing we draw out the policy implications of the study for charity retail organisations and suggest directions for further research.