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The Motivation of Temporary Agency Workers: An Empirical Analysis

Author

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  • Grund, Christian

    (RWTH Aachen University)

  • Minten, Axel

    (RWTH Aachen University)

  • Toporova, Nevena

    (Technische Universität München)

Abstract

We are investigating the relationship between individual and job-related characteristics and the motivation of temporary agency workers. To do so, we are using a unique dataset from one of Germany's largest temporary work agencies. For 3,000 temporary agency workers, a subjective motivation appraisal is provided by the respective direct manager within the hiring company. It is possible to observe a positive relationship between the decision on transition to regular employment and the motivation of temporary agency workers. Women in temporary agency work demonstrate a higher degree of motivation than men. However, in the case of men a clearer correlation can be observed between project duration and motivation. A change of hiring company with follow-up projects has a negative effect on the temporary agency worker's motivation.

Suggested Citation

  • Grund, Christian & Minten, Axel & Toporova, Nevena, 2017. "The Motivation of Temporary Agency Workers: An Empirical Analysis," IZA Discussion Papers 11229, Institute of Labor Economics (IZA).
    • Handle: RePEc:iza:izadps:dp11229
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    work morale; motivation; empirical study; atypical employment relation; temporary agency work;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • J5 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Labor-Management Relations, Trade Unions, and Collective Bargaining
    • J81 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Labor Standards - - - Working Conditions
    • M5 - Business Administration and Business Economics; Marketing; Accounting; Personnel Economics - - Personnel Economics

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