Factors Affecting the Relationship between Workplace Loneliness and Productivity of Employees in Pakistan

This study aimed to explore the channels through which Workplace Loneliness (WPL) affects employees’ productivity. A theoretical framework was proposed, suggesting WPL increases the Need to Belong (NtB) and Affective Commitment to Organization (ACO), in turn affecting the employees’ productivity. We adopted a survey design to collect primary data through a closed-ended questionnaire. The targeted population consisted of individuals working in various organizations in Pakistan. Data was analysed using Structural Equation Modelling (SEM). As per the findings, the relationship of WPL seems to have a positive effect on Work Productivity (WP) of employees. WPL also seems to positively affect NtB, which in turn positively affects productivity, hence a significant positive mediation of NtB between WPL and WP. The effect of WPL on ACO seems to be insignificant; however, AC seem to have a positive effect on WP. Both moderation effects seem to remain inconclusive. The novel scholarly contribution of this study includes the practical implications of its results to consider loneliness an organizational problem that needs to be tackled to help employees and improve work productivity.