Role of Reward Systems on Job Satisfaction of Employees in the County Government of Nyeri, Kenya

The study sought to investigate the effect of reward systems on the job satisfaction of employees in the County Government of Nyeri. This research problem was examined using a descriptive design. Systematic sampling was used to select the sample. The target population for this study was 162 employees of Nyeri County government. Self-administered, questionnaires were used to collect data from the target respondents. A response rate of 82.1% response rate was achieved. Reliability of the data collection instrument was assessed using Cronbach alpha Coefficient. Frequencies and percentages were generated from the data and presented using frequency distribution tables while multiple regression analysis was done to establish relationship of each parameter of the independent variables in the study. The reward system influenced approximately 11.3% of job satisfaction of among employees working in the County government of Nyeri. The research found that there is a positive and statistically significant relationship between reward system and employee satisfaction. The study recommended that the County Government should review staff rewards by comparing how their counterparts are rewarded in private sector in order to increase job satisfaction in County Government. In terms of policy the County government should have in place transparent and elaborate reward systems for effective management of employee satisfaction. Non-monetary rewards should be adopted adequately in the reward systems of the county governments including recognition and placement for training and other personal development initiatives. These together with promotions should be done in a competitive way that entrench meritocracy and eliminate the favoritisms currently existing in such activities.