Career Motivations and Job Satisfaction Among Ghanaian Entrepreneurs and Civil Servants: A Comparative Analysis

This study investigates the relationship between career motivations and job satisfaction among Ghanaian entrepreneurs and civil servants, emphasizing how these factors shape work performance and professional engagement. Using a mixed-methods research design, the study combines quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews to capture both measurable trends and nuanced perceptions. A total of 200 participants, including 100 entrepreneurs and 100 civil servants, were sampled using stratified random and purposive sampling techniques. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and regression analysis, while thematic analysis was employed for qualitative data. Findings reveal that intrinsic motivation strongly predicts job satisfaction among entrepreneurs, whereas extrinsic rewards and structured incentives are more influential for civil servants. Additionally, differences in work environments, policy frameworks, and access to resources account for variations in motivation and satisfaction levels between the two groups. The study underscores the importance of aligning motivation strategies with sector-specific contexts to enhance employee engagement, productivity, and organizational outcomes. These insights have implications for policymakers, human resource managers, and development practitioners seeking to optimize workforce performance in Ghana.