Examining isolation and commitment as mechanisms by which remote work influences subsequent individual and organisational outcomes

Abstract

As the prevalence of remote work rises, so too does the uncertainty surrounding associated outcomes. The current research examined factors associated with remote work and how these related to individual and organisational outcomes. To further understand these relationships, the mediating influence of social and professional isolation and organisational commitment was assessed. Sixty-seven remote workers completed online surveys at three time points separated by two-week intervals. Social and professional isolation mediated relationships between need for relatedness and remote work reason, and the outcome variables of organisational commitment, job satisfaction, and advancement opportunities. Organisational commitment mediated relationships between physical isolation, management support, and remote work reason, and all outcomes variables (social and professional isolation, job satisfaction, remote work effectiveness, advancement opportunities, turnover intent). Results highlight the significance of social and professional isolation and organisational commitment in determining outcomes, and encourage remote working individuals and organisations to consider these important areas of focus.