Exploring the drivers of employee devotion: a study of motivational factors in Vietnam

Purpose This study investigates the key motivational drivers of employee devotion among early-career professionals in the emerging economy of Vietnam. Design/methodology/approach A dual-wave cross-sectional survey (N = 310) was conducted across two cohorts (2020 and 2026) in Ho Chi Minh City. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) refined the measurement items into a parsimonious four-factor framework, followed by multiple linear regression incorporating demographic, sectoral, and temporal control variables. Findings The unified “Socio-Psychological Work Environment” (SPE), synthesizing job autonomy, interpersonal relationships, and person-organization fit, emerges as the most potent predictor of employee devotion, followed by learning opportunities and compensation policies. Conversely, the physical working environment shows no statistically significant impact, acting strictly as a Herzbergian hygiene factor. Female and incrementally older professionals report slightly lower baseline devotion, while the temporal cohort dummy confirms the structural stability of the model over time. Practical implications Organizations must pivot from isolated physical hygiene factors toward cultivating holistic socio-psychological ecosystems through job crafting, psychological safety, and reverse mentoring, complemented by continuous career development and gender-sensitive HR policies. Originality/value This paper advances Social Exchange and Two-Factor theories by validating a culturally grounded, consolidated socio-psychological construct and confirming the empirical stability of employee devotion drivers in a transitional market.