A Comparative Study of Work Ethic Among Ghanaian Workers in Different Industries: Identifying Factors that Drive Work Ethic

Work ethic is a critical determinant of organizational productivity, employee engagement, and national development. This study examined work ethic among Ghanaian workers across multiple industries, identifying individual, organizational, and socio-cultural factors that drive diligence, responsibility, and professionalism. A mixed-methods design was employed, incorporating structured questionnaires from 250 employees and semi-structured interviews with 30 participants across banking, healthcare, manufacturing, education, and public service sectors. Quantitative analysis included ANOVA and hierarchical regression, while qualitative data were analyzed thematically. Findings revealed significant differences in work ethic across industries, with intrinsic motivation and conscientiousness emerging as the strongest individual predictors. Organizational factors such as leadership, recognition, and reward systems, as well as socio- cultural influences like cultural norms and societal expectations, also significantly influenced work ethic. The study highlights the multidimensional nature of work ethic and underscores the importance of integrating personal, organizational, and cultural considerations in workforce management. Practical implications include employee development, organizational policy improvements, and sector-specific strategies to enhance work ethic and productivity in Ghanaian workplaces.