Quality of Work Life and Employee Work Outcomes: A Hierarchical Model With Mediation Analysis

Abstract

The paper investigates how the quality of work life (QWL), presented in a hierarchical model, influences employee work outcomes (job performance and retention intention). The paper also examines if job satisfaction mediates the above relationship. Drawing on the social exchange theory, the paper examines these two research questions using 365 employees from Bangladesh's ready-made garment (RMG) industry. The findings show that QWL is positively associated with job satisfaction, retention intention, and in-role performance. Job satisfaction has a significant positive effect on the outcome variables as well. Furthermore, job satisfaction mediates QWL and employee work outcomes relationship. The hierarchical model of QWL and its impact on employee outcomes through the mediating role of job satisfaction continues to lag. As such, the paper provides practical insights for organizations looking to improve employee satisfaction, performance, and retention through QWL. These findings have implications for research on positive relationships at work. The study has a few limitations that may provide opportunities for future research.

Work‐life balance and withdrawal behaviors among knowledge workforce: High performance work system comes into play for managing boundaries

“…Other researchers have explored various aspects of human resource management (HRM), including High Performance Work Practice (e.g., Rubel & Kee, 2013), High Commitment HRM (e.g., Rubel et al, 2021a), Socially Responsible HRM (e.g., Rubel et al, 2023), High Involvement HRM (e.g., Kee et al, 2020;Rubel et al, 2023a;Rubel et al, 2016), and green HRM (e.g., Patwa & Kee, 2024;Rubel et al, 2021b;2021c;You & Kee, 2024) shedding light on their impacts on employees' work outcomes and organizational performance. Rubel et al (2023b) have recently contributed to our understanding of the complex relationship between the quality of work life and employee work outcomes. Their research offers insights into how various factors influence employee well-being and performance, revealing the importance of a holistic approach to workforce management.…”