Motivational Factors Influencing Operational Staff Performance: A Case Study of Pimpool Villa Hotel,

Abstract

This study explores the motivational factors influencing the work performance of operational staff at Pimpool Villa Hotel, a small-scale hospitality business in Nan Province, Thailand. A mixed-method design was employed, combining quantitative data from Google Forms questionnaires with qualitative insights from online interviews. The sample comprised 12 operational employees, and data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and content analysis.Findings indicate that intrinsic motivation particularly achievement, recognition, and meaningful work was the strongest driver of performance. Extrinsic factors such as salary and benefits were rated as less influential, though supportive supervision and collegial relationships contributed positively to engagement. These results emphasize the importance of cultivating a workplace culture that prioritizes intrinsic motivators while maintaining supportive external conditions. The study contributes to hospitality HRM literature by underscoring the centrality of intrinsic motivation in sustaining employee performance. Practical implications suggest that small-scale hotels should design HR strategies that emphasize recognition, empowerment, and meaningful work experiences, while ensuring fair compensation and supportive leadership to achieve longterm sustainability.