Understanding How Recruitment Practices Shape Municipal Performance: A Perspective From South Africa

Abstract

Municipal staff are often compared to the engine of a car, which is essential for its operation. Similarly, a municipality relies on its staff to function effectively and deliver services efficiently. This analogy indicates the critical importance of recruiting the right staff, as municipal staff play a central role in ensuring the efficient and effective delivery of services in South Africa. Prior studies have shown that many municipalities in the country suffer from irregular recruitment practices. This has led to the appointment of individuals who may not have the qualifications, skills, and experience necessary to play their role effectively. However, how this affects municipal performance has not been sufficiently addressed. The novelty of this study lies in its focused qualitative exploration of the direct and systemic effects of irregular recruitment practices on municipal performance, an area that has received limited attention in existing literature. To address this gap, the paper employed a qualitative approach and utilised secondary data sources. The paper found that irregular recruitment in South African municipalities leads to high staff turnover, low morale, poor service delivery, and reduced public trust. Low performance results from unqualified individuals filling roles ineffectively. The Person-Environment Fit Theory (PEFT) supports these findings, indicating the critical role of aligning individual skills and values with the work environment. Politically influenced or non-merit-based hiring misaligns skills with organizational needs, harming performance. The paper advocates for merit-based recruitment, aligning with the National Development Plan’s goal of a professional public service. To address these issues, the paper recommends that municipalities adopt merit-based recruitment practices, curtail political involvement, and improve human resource training and recruitment technologies. These measures will improve municipal performance, stability, and governance.