Chapter 3: Methods
3.1 Research Methods and theoretical framework
3.1.1 Research Design
Any study's approach to data collection and analysis is shaped by the research design, which
is a vital component. A qualitative research design was used in this study to delve into the
nuanced details and varying viewpoints around applicant expectations and motivational
variables in the context of recruiting. Understanding complex social phenomena and
obtaining in-depth insights into participants' experiences and perspectives are special
strengths of qualitative research (Keith et al., 2022). This study chose a qualitative
methodology in order to explore the many facets of applicant expectations and motivation
that quantitative methods might not be able to fully capture.
The qualitative research design was chosen because it can provide detailed, context-specific
insights into the expectations and motivations of candidates. Qualitative approaches were
judged appropriate given the exploratory character of the study and the need to record
participants' perspectives in their own words. The study attempted to encourage participants
to share their perspectives by conducting focus group interviews and using open-ended
questionnaires, enabling a deeper understanding of the phenomenon.
3.1.2 Theoretical Framework: Herzberg's Two-Factor Theory
Herzberg's Two-Factor Theory of Motivation is at the core of this investigation. Herzberg's
approach divides motivators (intrinsic elements that drive satisfaction and motivation) from
hygiene factors (extrinsic aspects that might contribute to discontent) in the workplace
(Pratama et al., 2023). This theory offers a framework for comprehending the elements
affecting candidate expectations and motivation during the hiring process. The study's
emphasis on finding crucial factors that contribute to candidates' happiness and motivation
throughout the recruiting process is consistent with Herzberg's paradigm.
Due of its applicability in the area of employee motivation and happiness, Herzberg's Two-
Factor Theory was selected as the theoretical foundation. A thorough framework for
analyzing all aspects of applicant expectations and motivation in recruiting is provided by the
theory's twin focus on hygiene factors and motivators (Tezel et al., 2023). The synthesis of
the topics that arose from the study is facilitated by this framework, which offers a formal
foundation for categorizing and interpreting data.
3.2 Sample Selection
Participants that closely matched the study's focus on candidate expectations and
motivational variables in the recruiting process were chosen as the sample for the study.
Focus group interviews and questionnaires were used in combination to obtain various
viewpoints in order to accomplish this. The main objective was to make sure the selected
participants would offer in-depth understandings of the study issues, adding to the richness of
the data.
The study's target audience consists of people who are actively looking for work and
participating in the hiring process. These people represent a diverse variety of ethnicities,
educational experiences, and professional backgrounds, providing a comprehensive insight of
candidate expectations and motivations as a whole.
Convenience sampling was selected as the sampling method for this investigation. According
to Etikan and Babtope (2019), convenience sampling entails choosing individuals who are
easily reachable and accessible to the researcher. Candidates who demonstrated interest in
taking part in focus groups and completing questionnaires were in this instance included in
the sample. Convenience sampling was selected because it is useful and appropriate for
exploratory research, where the main goal is to acquire insights from a variety of viewpoints
rather than achieving statistical representation.
150 completed questionnaires and four focus groups made up the study's sample size. Given
the qualitative nature of the research and its focus on obtaining a variety of in-depth opinions,
this sample size was chosen. A compromise between getting a sufficiently large dataset and
handling the practical constraints of conducting focus group interviews and evaluating
qualitative data was struck given the complexity of the research topic and the desire to
explore several dimensions of candidate expectations.
Because the research was exploratory, convenience sampling was chosen. Convenience
sampling made it possible for the researcher to choose participants who were easily
accessible and eager to give their perspectives because the study aims to dive into the
subjective experiences and views of candidates. Convenience sampling's practical approach
fits with the study's objective of producing thorough insights that might guide future research
attempts, even though it might limit the generalizability of findings.
In order to make sure that the chosen methods are consistent with the research's goals and
limitations, it is important to carefully analyze the sample selection procedure, target
population, sampling technique, and justification. The study used convenience sampling to
collect a wide variety of viewpoints while respecting the exploratory nature of the research.
3.3 Data Collection Techniques
Focus group interviews and questionnaires were the two main methods used in this study to
gather data. To give a thorough grasp of the variables influencing talent acquisition and the
preferences of job prospects, each technique was carefully chosen.
3.3.1 Focus Group Interviews
To learn more about the preferences, experiences, and opinions of job candidates about talent
acquisition strategies, focus groups were held. The research objectives were discussed in
detail in small groups of participants using this qualitative methodology. Open-ended
questions were included in the focus group interview guide in order to enable participants to
express their opinions and experiences about different facets of the hiring process. The target
demographic was chosen for the focus group interviews participants to ensure variety in
terms of age, gender, educational attainment, employment situation, and other pertinent
criteria. Due to the diversity, the subject might be seen from various perspectives. The dataset
offered reflects the focus group participants' demographics.
Focus group interviews were chosen because it was necessary to get rich qualitative data and
nuanced ideas. The study attempted to find underlying motivations, attitudes, and beliefs that
might not be easily captured by quantitative approaches alone by including participants in
interactive dialogues.
3.3.2 Questionnaire
For the purpose of gathering quantitative information about participants' interests,
viewpoints, and experiences regarding talent acquisition strategies, a questionnaire was
created and given to a larger sample of participants. Numerous elements of the questionnaire
were broken down into categories, such as customer experience, best abilities, motivational
factors, and demographics. A variety of things were presented to the participants, and they
were asked to react using multiple-choice questions.
The larger target audience was used to choose the sample for the survey, which represented a
diverse variety of demographics, levels of experience, and preferences. The dataset offered
contains the answers to this questionnaire. The necessity to quantify the preferences and
opinions of more individuals was the justification for adopting questionnaires (The results of
survey are attached in appendix). Using this technique, statistical analysis was possible,
allowing trends and patterns in the data to be found. A thorough grasp of the research issue
was provided through the mix of quantitative and qualitative data collection methods.
3.4 Data Analysis Technique
Method of Content Analysis
Content analysis is a methodical, objective methodology used to structurally evaluate
qualitative material. It entails drawing out important patterns and ideas from text, images, or
audio. In this study, the collected interview transcripts were subjected to content analysis in
order to identify, extract, and analyze themes and codes. According to Kleinheksel et al.
(2020), content analysis provides a thorough method for evaluating communication content in
a way that can be repeated and validated.
Derivation of Themes and Codes
After carefully reviewing the interview transcripts and becoming comfortable with the data,
themes and codes might be derived. As advised by Lochmiller (2021), the initial codes were
created inductively, allowing the codes to arise naturally from the data. Then, potential
themes were created using these scripts. Through a process of pattern recognition where
connections between codes were made, themes were honed. The systematic development of
themes was guaranteed by this process, which was in line with the methodology described by
Lochmiller (2021).
Examples of Themes and Codes
For instance, two key themes were found in the data that was gathered about the difficulties
of working remotely. First was the category under "Technological Constraints," which
included codes like "Limited Video Conferencing Options" and "Unstable Internet
Connectivity." Codes for the second subject, "Work-Life Imbalance," included "Blurring of
Work and Personal Time" and "Increased Domestic Responsibilities." According to
Lochmiller (2021), these themes and codes were supported by verbatim excerpts from the
interviews.
Alignment with Research Objectives
By focusing on the main areas of inquiry, the data analysis was in line with the study goals.
The purpose of the study was to identify issues and possibilities with remote work. Different
themes and codes were discovered through content analysis, providing light on technology
limitations, work-life imbalance, potential for autonomy, and the value of communication.
The analysis gave thorough insights that directly addressed the research objectives by
carefully going over the data.
Comparison of Focus Group and Questionnaire Data
The comparison of the data from focus group talks and questionnaires was an important
feature of this study. Rich and complex qualitative data were produced by the focus group
talks, providing a comprehensive insight of the members' perspectives. On the other hand, the
quantitative information from the questionnaire allowed for the measurement of participant
preferences and frequency within the larger participant sample. Following Dawadi et al.
(2021) advice, this mixed-methods approach gave a comprehensive understanding of the
topic under study.
In conclusion, content analysis proved to be a reliable method for this study's investigation of
qualitative data. The study produced insightful findings that were in line with the goals of the
research by adhering to accepted techniques for determining themes and codes. The findings
were further enhanced by the combination of focus group and survey data, which painted a
complete picture of the opportunities and constraints of remote work.
3.5 SWOT Analysis
STRENGTHS
* Maintaining a leading position in the WEAKNESSES
recruitment industry within the area * Having less number of employees in
with identical recruitment stratgeies the company
* Well qulified staff * Catering only for the Bio-Tech
* Operating in a niche market industry
* Partnership with top universities * Geogrophical restraint (Only one
through campus hiring branch, located in Cardiff only)
Having different services related to the *Lack of advancment opportunities
hiring process in portfolio
SWOT ANALYSIS
OPPORTUNITIES THREATS
* Higher number of potential * There aren't enough graduates in the
candidates because of tertiary Bio-Tech field to fill the open positions
educational institues located within the across the industry
area * Increase in the number of
* With the use of AI, easy access to competitors
potential candidates and clients * Staff reduction in the society due to
* Ability to expand the business across economic crisis
other fields * Competitors with lower prices
* Good reputation in the community
Figure 1: SWOT Analysis
Making informed research decisions is based on the SWOT analysis. It provides a thorough
grasp of both the internal dynamics and external environment of the agency. Decisions on the
distribution of resources, strategic alliances, service diversification, and expansion strategies
can be guided by this information. For instance, the analysis implies that broadening beyond
the Bio-Tech sector would be a wise strategic choice to take advantage of opportunities and
lessen the impact of the field's shortage of graduates.
3.6 PESTLE Analysis
POLITICAL
Changes in government policies like labour laws, work permits and immigration
laws
Political stability can effects the companys' operations and consistency.
Mandatory employee benefits like health insurance, retirement plans will effect
how appealing the position is for the candidates.
ECONOMIC
Inflation can change the candidate expectations
low unemployment rate can leading to competition in talent market
Changes in Intrest rate can effect on how businesses invest
Demand for candidates depend upon the business cycle stage
SOCIAL
level of skill accessible in the job market has an impact on how convenient it is to acquire
the suitable candidates
Educational levels of the candidates have an impact on the depth of the talent pool.
Understanding cultural preferences of candidates is essential
Changes in candidate preferences have an impact on recruitment process
Identifying the leisure intrests of candidates can enhance employee engagement
TECHNOLOGY
Adopting to emerging technologies and innovative processes
Technological diffusion
Keeping an eye on technology developement by competitor is cruitial
LEGAL
Following different kind of Laws like employment laws, Discrimination laws, health and
safty laws
Have to follow Advertisment standards to advertise a job
ENVIRONMENT
Company should support Eco-friendly workplace practices to support climate change and
sustanibility
Figure 2: PESTLE Analysis
The PESTLE study greatly enhances the research framework by offering a comprehensive
picture of the external factors influencing the landscape of recruiting agencies. It supports the
development of research questions, hypotheses, and suggestions that meet the possibilities
and difficulties found in the analysis. The research develops a well-rounded view that looks
beyond internal operations and explores the larger societal and contextual aspects affecting
the agency's success and sustainability by using PESTLE findings.
3.7 Fishbone Diagram
Figure 3: Fish bone diagram
The Fishbone Diagram has a considerable impact on the path of the research since it offers a
concise and well-organized picture of potential causes that could be further investigated. The
research team can rank the causes according to their significance and possible influence once
the diagram has been filled with a variety of plausible causes. The team is then able to
explore deeper into the causes that are most likely causing the identified difficulties thanks to
this prioritizing, which directs the emphasis of the investigation.
The research team may benefit from the Fishbone Diagram's ideas and conversations. It
promotes teamwork in problem-solving and enables academics to look at the issue from
many perspectives. The team is able to build more potent tactics and solutions as a result of
the collaborative approach, which frequently results in a more thorough understanding of the
problem.
The Fishbone Diagram makes sure that crucial components of the issue are not missed by the
investigation by showing the numerous contributing factors and core causes. It serves as a
road map, directing the study in a route that solves the key problems, fits with the study's
goals, and eventually produces recommendations and judgments that are better informed for
the recruitment agency.
3.8 Reliability and Validity
To retain the integrity and credibility of the research findings, it is crucial to ensure a study's
reliability and validity. Several measures were adopted in this study to improve the validity
and reliability of the research. A consistent methodology was used throughout the data
gathering and analysis procedure to ensure reliability. This includes the use of predetermined
coding methods and standardized surveys for qualitative data. Additionally, to establish
agreement and consistency, inter-rater reliability checks were carried out by including
multiple researchers in the coding process.
Through a number of methods, validity was maintained. Subject matter experts' advice and a
pilot study were used to guarantee the research tools' content validity, including the
questionnaire and interview guides. By matching the research variables to recognized
theoretical frameworks and concepts, construct validity was preserved. Data triangulation
was used to increase internal validity by comparing findings from many data sources,
including focus group talks, questionnaire responses, and secondary data, to spot convergent
trends and lessen the chance of bias.
Sharing the results with the participants helped to strengthen credibility by confirming the
veracity and accuracy of the interpretation. External researchers assessed the research
procedure and results during peer debriefing, providing crucial insights and minimizing
researcher bias. Furthermore, continuous interaction with the data during the analysis stage
enabled a deeper comprehension of the subtleties and complexity within the gathered data.
It's critical to recognize any potential biases and constraints. Despite diligent efforts,
researcher bias may have unintentionally affected the interpretation of the findings. The
study's limited generalizability due to its focus on a particular sector and geographic area.
Furthermore, because participants might have given answers, they thought were more
approving, replies may have been prone to social desirability bias. These draw attention to the
need for careful interpretation of the results.
3.9 Ethical Considerations
The research method was conducted with strict adherence to ethical standards. All
participants gave their agreement after receiving information about the study's objectives,
methods, and potential risks. Participants were told that they had the freedom to leave at any
time without suffering any consequences. Privacy and confidentiality were of utmost
importance, and all data were made anonymous to prevent participant identification.
Sensitive subjects were handled delicately to protect participants' emotional wellbeing
throughout talks.
3.10 Interpretation of Findings
The research objectives defined at the start of the study were closely related to the themes and
codes that emerged from the data analysis. For instance, one of the research's goals was to
investigate the variables that affect candidates' choices during the hiring process. Different
topics, including "Career Growth Opportunities," "Work-Life Balance," and "Company
Reputation" were found to be major drivers of applicant preferences through the examination
of participant responses. These findings clearly addressed the research goals in addition to
offering insightful information on candidate motivations.
Additionally, relating the observed themes and patterns to the literature review and study
questions was part of the finding’s interpretation process. The investigation was able to
confirm or refute popular beliefs by contrasting the results with previously published
material. One pattern that emerged from the data, for instance, emphasized the significance of
individualized contact during the hiring process. This result was consistent with literature
(Dimitrov, 2019) that highlighted the importance of communication in developing strong
employer-candidate connections. This connection between actual data and theoretical ideas
strengthened the study's impact on the field.
The study evaluated its results with recognized models and frameworks in addition to testing
current hypotheses. For instance, Zhang et al. (2019)'s "Job Embeddedness Model" offered a
lens through which the topics of "Organizational Fit" and "Community Engagement" could
be examined. The agreement between the study's findings and this model suggested that the
model is useful for comprehending candidate retention criteria in the context of the particular
sector.
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Appendix
Survey Responses
