Workplace Spirituality and Employee Wellbeing in the Hospitality Sector: Examining the Influence of Fear of COVID-19

Abstract

Drawing from the job demands-resources theory and the protection motivation theory, this study attempts to examine how the experience of workplace spirituality impacts employee wellbeing during times of remote work. This study also examines how fear of COVID-19 moderates the aforementioned relationship. Using a self-administered questionnaire, data were collected from 566 employees working in the hospitality sector in India. Results revealed that the experience of three dimensions of workplace spirituality (meaningful work, sense of community, and alignment with organisational values) had a significant positive influence on employee wellbeing, even during remote work. Fear of COVID-19 had an interesting significant moderating effect, and it was revealed that the higher the fear, the stronger the relationship between the workplace spirituality (in terms of meaningful work, sense of community, and alignment with organisational values) and employee wellbeing. The insights gained from this study will assist both the employees and the managers in devising personalised approaches towards individual wellbeing and the organisation at large during times of pandemics.