Unraveling the impact of values, perceptions and personality on job satisfaction

Purpose This paper aims to examine stimulation value as a predictor of job satisfaction in employees working in a rigid, bureaucratic setting. It also examines the role of perceptions of politics, political will and Machiavellianism as mediators and moderators. Design/methodology/approach PLS SEM was used to test mediation and moderated mediation hypothesis. Findings While stimulation value had a negative relationship with job satisfaction, and the moderation and mediation hypotheses are supported, the moderated mediation hypothesis found limited support. Research limitations/implications This study opens up avenues to explore specific personal values and their impact on various work-related outcomes. It also establishes the importance of personality and perceptions in determining how employees experience their workplace. Originality/value To the best of the author’s knowledge, the present study is the first to have specified the personal value and explored its relationship with employee personalities, attitudes and perceptions.