Purpose The purpose of this paper is to examine the factors affecting quality of work life (QWL) of teachers working in Higher Education Institutions. Design/methodology/approach A cross-sectional study was conducted by sampling 347 teaching faculty members through questionnaires. Findings Fair communication plays the strongest role and social networks have the weakest role in shaping the QWL in higher educational institutions (HEIs) of Pakistan. The relationship of social networks and QWL negates the Hofstede’s view of Pakistan society to a great extent. Research limitations/implications A cross-sectional data set is used for tapping a small sample size. The direct effects of four factors were considered for examination. The examination of indirect effects for the factors having weak effects is recommended. Practical implications Decision makers having intentions to improve QWL in HEIs must adopt procedural justice and effective communication channels; they should have high respect for employees and should help them to develop networks within the HEIs. Social implications Inter-relationships at workplace are hampering due to weak social networks. Originality/value The study is an important landmark in highlighting the factors that must be available for higher QWL of faculty members of public sector HEIs.

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