Implications of the Results of Recent Turnover Research for Air Force Policy.
Abstract
Recent research under the auspices of the Air Force Human Resources Laboratory (AFHRL) has identified factors influencing turnover intent and behavior of first- and second-term enlisted personnel in eight occupational specialties. Implications for Air Force policy of the results obtained are the topic of this paper. The results are striking and have clear policy implications. Relatively few factors consistently accounted for up to 68% of the variance in turnover and related outcomes, an accomplishment unparalleled in the literature. Results generalized across occupations, and were stable upon cross-validation. All but one of the factors identified are under management control. Thus, they lend themselves to remedial action. Each factor is discussed from the perspective of what actions management might take to induce valued airmen to remain in the Air Force. As a general rule, enhancing commitment appears to be more critical than increasing compensation as a managerial intervention strategy. Keywords: Assignments; Benefits; Bonuses; Civilian alternatives; Commitment; Family influences; Management; Organizational change; Personnel turnover; Policy implications; Retention; Satisfaction; Thoughts of leaving; Turnover intent; Turnover model.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 1986
- Accession Number
- ADA166612
Entities
People
- Thomas W. Watson
- Victor H. Appel
Organizations
- Air Force Research Laboratory