Developing a Knowledge Worker Retention Model in Knowledge-Based Companies (Case Study: IT, Communication, and Biotechnology Companies)

The current study aimed to develop a model to retain knowledge workers in knowledge-based companies in Iran. This correlational survey selected 250 companies via relative cluster sampling. A 34-item questionnaire was also prepared on the basis of the literature and interviews with professors and directors of knowledge-based companies. The data were analyzed in SPSS-20 and LISREL-8/72 using the following methods Cronbach’s alpha, Pearson Correlation, and Confirmatory Factor Analysis. Internal consistency ranged between 0.692 and 0.897, and correlation coefficients among all factors were desirable; in addition, goodness-of-fit indices confirmed the model proposed. The results showed that group thinking and mutual trust between individuals and organizational groups, participation in decision-making, positive organizational culture, job prestige, and communication development in work groups had the greatest impact. The results also confirmed the reliability and validity of the model to retain knowledge workers in knowledge-based companies. It was also revealed that in addition to payments, benefits, and workplace environment, some individual, group, and organizational factors play a role in retaining knowledge workers