Personality traits and organizational citizenship behavior in academia: exploring happiness at work as a mediator

Purpose This study aims to investigate the relationship between select personality traits and organizational citizenship behavior (OCB) and explore the mediation effect of happiness at work (HAW) in their relationship. Design/methodology/approach This study collected data from 400 faculty members of higher educational institutions in Jammu and Kashmir, India, achieving a response rate of 72.7%. Analysis was conducted using partial least squares structural equation modeling. Findings The findings of this study revealed significant relationship between personality traits and OCB, with the HAW being a mediator. Practical implications The results suggest that organizations should utilize personality tests to enhance OCB. Additionally, human resource strategies should prioritize HAW to further boost OCB levels. Originality/value To the best of authors’ knowledge, this is one of the first studies to highlight HAW as a mediator between select personality traits and OCB.