Application of the PLS-SEM model and Bootstrapping in analysing intrinsic work motivation of employees in the railway transportation business sector in Vietnam

Abstract

This study aims to identify the factors influencing intrinsic work motivation among employees in Vietnam’s railway transportation sector, while also exploring the mediating role of psychological and organisational variables in this relationship. Survey data were collected from employees at Hanoi Railway Transport Joint Stock Company and analysed using partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM). The findings reveal that three key mediators play a critical role in enhancing intrinsic motivation: (1) job engagement, (2) job satisfaction, and (3) perceived organisational support. Organisational and psychological factors, such as perceived work meaningfulness, job autonomy, and performance recognition - do not directly influence intrinsic motivation but exert significant indirect effects through these mediators. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of the indirect mechanisms
by which organisational and psychological conditions shape intrinsic motivation in a unique work environment. From a managerial perspective, the study proposes four groups of strategic interventions: (1) enhancing job engagement by fostering a meaningful and autonomous work environment; (2) enhancing job satisfaction through fair and transparent non-financial policies; (3) developing comprehensive organisational support systems, especially from supervisory levels; and (4) prioritising high-impact mediators to optimise human resource strategies.