Determinants of Job Satisfaction Among Work-From-Home Malaysians During Pandemic: Application of Job Demands-Resources Model

Abstract

Work From Home (WFH) or telework is gaining its popularity all over the world, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic has forced the organizations to embark on vitrual work environment even though many were not prepared for such changes. This study examined the determinants of job satisfaction among the new home workers during the COVID-19 pandemic in Malaysia by applying the Job Demands-Resources (JD-R) Model. The data were collected from 370 respondents across various industries through online questionnaire survey. Out of the 370 respondents, 30.5% of the respondents specializing in education/training, 24.6% are in accounting/banking/finance, 15.9% are in computer/IT and the remaining 29% are from other fields such as administration/HR, marketing/sales, manufacturing, engineering, art/media/communication, sciences, services and others. The findings based on the Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) analysis suggests that social isolation, suitability of home workspace, organizational supports, job autonomy and perceived self-competency have significant influences on employees’ job satisfaction while working from home. This study offers valuable insights to organizations regarding sustainable human resource management strategies during the pandemic. It suggests that various forms of organizational support should be extended to employees during times of difficulties and uncertainties.