A quantitative study of the relationship between organizational culture and turnover intent among minorities in a federal agency

The federal work force is continuously changing, and the Office of Personnel Management has projected a high turnover in retirement-eligible employees. However, retirement is not the only issue of concern; turnover as a whole is a major concern for many organizations. Turnover costs continue to rise, and although it has been researched consistently focusing on issues such as job satisfaction and performance, little is known about the relationship between organizational culture and turnover intent among minorities in federal government. This study investigated the relationship between organizational culture and turnover intent in a federal agency. The participants involved were full-time permanent employees. The study used a quantitative methodology to explore organizational culture and federal employees' intent to quit. Data were collected using two web-based surveys and a demographic questionnaire. The two main survey instruments were the Occupational Culture Profile (OCP), and the Intent to Quit questionnaire. The findings suggested there is no significant relationship between organizational culture, race, and turnover intent. There was evidence that some facets of organizational culture (as measured by the OCP) showed significance where turnover intent was concerned. The implications from this study suggest there is a significant relationship between organizational culture, Asians, and turnover intent, and although the literature suggested that demographics play a role in turnover intent, when combined with organizational culture, there was relationship significance in Asian minorities. Particularly notable, however, was the fact that Asian employees' responses showed that Asians contemplate leaving a job if performance, emphasis on rewards, and stability are viewed as being negative or are not part of the organization's culture. These findings support prior research findings and also warrant future investigation.