Corporate social responsibility and employee attitudes: evidence from a study of Polish hotel employees |
| |
Authors: | Piotr Zientara Lech Kujawski Paulina Bohdanowicz-Godfrey |
| |
Affiliation: | 1. Department of Economics, University of Gdańsk, 119/121 Armii Krajowej Street, Gdańsk 81–824, Polandzientara@fest.pl;3. Department of Management, University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland;4. Hilton Worldwide, Europe, Maple Court, Reeds Crescent, Watford WD244QQ, United Kingdom |
| |
Abstract: | This study, based on data collected from low-ranking employees working in Polish hotels, tests a research model that investigates whether there are links between corporate social responsibility (CSR), operationalized as “self-related” CSR experiences and “others-related” CSR experiences, and job satisfaction and organizational commitment, and between both attitudes and work engagement. Structural equation modelling was used to assess these relationships, using a 20 point questionnaire answered by 412 respondents. The results indicate that “others-related” CSR experiences are positively associated with satisfaction and commitment, while “self-related” CSR experiences with the latter variable. Likewise, organizational commitment, unlike job satisfaction, was linked to work engagement. However, contrary to our a priori assumptions and prior research, it turned out that job satisfaction was not a predictor of commitment. The paper discusses theoretical and practical implications of the findings. The study's most important practical implication is that Polish hotel employees attach weight to responsible behaviour: the hotel industry should perceive CSR in terms of strategic significance. Companies that want a committed and engaged workforce – and, by extension, to enhance their competitiveness – should embrace CSR. The paper concludes by highlighting its limitations and suggesting future research avenues. |
| |
Keywords: | CSR hotel industry employee attitudes Poland |
|
|