Labour turnover in private security firms in Kenya: A case study of future force security firm

Abstract

This research project presents results of the effects of labour turnover on organizations’ performance, in Kenya private security firms. It was carried out to establish the factors that influence labour turnover in the private security industry, with specific reference to security guards.

The findings of this study would be useful to the human resource planners within the private security industry. It will enable them gain a better understanding of employees leaving employment hence enabling them plan for the human resources requirement in their organizations. It would also provide management a better and in-depth understanding of why there is need to manage the human resources of the organization. The findings will also help the training managers to design effective induction courses, which will keep turnover rates low during early period of employment, as this stage usually constitutes the highest labour wastage rates. Finally, it will add knowledge to the academic community and stimulate further research in the field of labour turnover in other sectors of the economy. In the carrying out of the research, both self-administered questionnaires and interview guided questionnaires were used in collecting primary data.

The findings of the study indicated that the factors that influence labour turnover are; low pay, sickness, long working hours, misconduct, change of careers, and lack of career prospects. After undertaking the study, the following recommendations were made; that private guards be paid a salary at least within the minimum government requirement. The working conditions of the private security guards need to be improved. Thirdly, the management should be able to create job satisfaction to the employee. This can be done by doing job redesign which involves identifying the elements in a job that create satisfaction and dissatisfaction. Fourthly, since most people are opportunity seekers, employees should be aware of the opportunities that exist inside the organization. Finally the general public should be sensitized on the important role the private security guards play in our society and therefore should not be looked down upon.