Effects of Employee Counselling Program on Performance of Employees in State Corporations in Kenya: A Case of Kenya Ports Authority

Abstract

Organizations implement employee counselling programs to assist workers address work and personal issues and challenges that may negatively affect their productivity. Early identification and management of issues facing employees will benefit both the employees and employers. Employee Counselling Programs enable employees to balance their work and personal values, and that the company will benefit from rejuvenated employees. The study aimed to analyze the impact of employee assistance interventions on productivity of workers in state corporations in Kenya by focusing on Kenya Ports Authority (KPA). The study precisely sought to ascertain the degree to which employee counselling programs affects productivity of workers at Kenya Ports Authority. The study was guided by the social exchange theory. The study adopted descriptive research design and targeted 450 employees of Kenya Ports Authority. The researcher used stratified and purposive sampling design to select 135 subjects for the study. The study undertook a pilot investigation to establish the reliability and validity of data collection instruments. The data was collected using a structured questionnaire. The analyzed data was presented using percentages and frequency tables from which the researcher was able to draw conclusions and make recommendations. The study established that counselling programmes for the employees had the highest effect at 65.4%. The study found that employees who utilized the employee counselling programmes positively affected their performance through reduced anxiety and stress, improved working morale, improved punctuality and reduced absenteeism. The study recommends for the enhancement of employee counselling programmes and provision of financial literacy services as they play a critical role in enhancing the performance of employees. Specifically, counselling needs to focus on helping employees deal with workplace conflicts, as well as manage chronic illnesses and HIV. In general, counselling and support services should focus on improving employees’ wellness. Keywords: Employee counseling programs, employee performance, state corporations, Kenya.