Navigating employee diversity: role of demographics in shaping workplace spirituality in non-Western hospitality sector

Purpose This study aims to investigate the relationship between workplace spirituality and demographic characteristics – gender, marital status, qualification, work experience, salary and age – among employees in the Indian hospitality sector. Design/methodology/approach Data were collected from 264 full-time professionals working in the hospitality sector in India who practice various mindfulness or spiritual techniques. Data were analyzed using independent t-tests, Pearson’s correlation and stepwise regression to determine the influence of demographic variables on workplace spirituality and its sub-dimensions. Findings The results indicate that men, married employees, employees with higher qualifications, older employees and employees with higher work experience report significantly higher levels of workplace spirituality. Among the various demographic variables, work experience emerged as the sole significant predictor of overall workplace spirituality. The study particularly highlights meaningful work and transcendence associated with professional maturity and tenure. Research limitations/implications Workplace spirituality in India’s hospitality sector is strongly influenced by demographic traits, with work experience emerging as the most significant. Organizations can benefit by utilizing the insight of seasoned employees while promoting spirituality-oriented practices – meaningful work, compassion, transcendence and mindfulness – across all staff, thereby enhancing employee well-being and improving organizational performance. Practical implications This study offers valuable insights for hospitality practitioners to foster workplace spirituality. Organizations can promote mentorship programs, continuous learning, mindfulness training and family-inclusive human resource (HR) practices. By integrating spirituality into daily operations and valuing employees’ diverse experiences and life stages, hospitality firms can enhance engagement, empathy and commitment while aligning organizational performance with holistic employee well-being. Originality/value This research contributes to the limited empirical literature on workplace spirituality in a non-Western context by emphasizing the relevance of personal and professional maturity in nurturing spirituality in the workplace and offering practical implications for HR practices in the Indian hospitality industry.