The thin line: exploring sales job stress effects on disidentification and intention to quit

Purpose This paper aims to ascertain the effects of stress in sales positions and the intention of employees to quit their jobs. The paper also places a distinct focus on unraveling the intricate mechanisms of organizational disidentification that underlie the connection between job stress and the intention to quit. Design/methodology/approach To secure results of high precision and reliability, this study employed a convenient sampling approach to gather data from sales personnel in the Delhi National Capital Region (NCR). A total of 329 samples were meticulously gathered and subjected to analysis through partial structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) using SMART PLS 4.0. This method enabled the relationships between the variables, yielding invaluable insights for our research. Findings The study's findings emphasize a clear connection between job stress and the inclination to quit. The data indicates that heightened job stress increases the likelihood of employees contemplating job departure. Notably, the study unveils organizational disidentification as a crucial factor in this association. Essentially, when employees feel disconnected from their organization, they are more prone to job stress and consider leaving. The takeaway is evident: employers must prioritize employee well-being, foster a positive work environment and thereby diminish job stress to retain their valuable workforce. Research limitations/implications The research makes it evident that job stress is leading employees to withdraw from social interactions and, in some cases, quit their jobs. To address this issue, organizations can lower dissatisfaction by supporting stress management initiatives and promoting a healthy environment. The study underscores the significance of adopting strategies and practices that instill a sense of pride in employees for being part of the organization. This approach not only helps in retaining top talent but also cultivates a more positive work environment. Originality/value Uncovering the nuanced relationship between job stress and the intention to quit is the primary goal of this study. What sets this research apart is its capability to illuminate the existence of organizational disidentification arising from stress in sales jobs.