The role of flexible work arrangement in adaptive career behavior and satisfaction: a multi-group analysis

Purpose This study examines the relationships among career behavior, occupational self-efficacy, meaningful work and career satisfaction. It also investigates the role of flexible work arrangements in these relationships towards building an adaptive career system. Design/methodology/approach Data for the study were analyzed using multi-group structural equation modeling to examine the relationships between the four variables and the moderating effect of different flexible work arrangements. Findings The results showed the direct effects of career behavior on occupational self-efficacy and career satisfaction. Occupational self-efficacy was significantly related to career satisfaction through meaningful work. Meaningful work was also positively related to career satisfaction. Finally, the findings revealed different relationships based on flexible work arrangements. Originality/value This study established that meaningful work and occupational self-efficacy are vital forces that impact the relationship between career behavior and satisfaction. By empirically providing evidence of flexible work practice on career satisfaction, the study answers several calls by research to examine how flexible work arrangement can play a critical role in career management.