Linking training to teamwork preference: the intermediary function of coworker support

Purpose Teams are always a connecting factor among employees and departments within an organization. Based on the postulates of social exchange theory, this research aims to examine the relationship between training and employees’ teamwork preferences, considering the mediating role of coworker support. Design/methodology/approach Respondents were full-time employees in Indian private and public-sector organizations. Data from 361 participants were statistically analyzed using confirmatory factor analysis and mediation analysis in SPSS and the Hayes Process Macro, and partial least squares structural equation modeling with 10,000 random bootstrap resamples. Findings The analysis showed a positive association between training and a preference for teamwork. Furthermore, coworker support partially mediated the positive relationship between training and preference for teamwork. The results also displayed a comparative analysis between private and public sector organizations. Practical implications This study shows that employees’ participation in training fosters a sense of association among them. Employees can be given teamwork training so that, whenever they encounter teamwork situations, they are highly motivated to work together. With coworker support, employees may readily share responsibilities when working in teams. Originality/value This study extends the strategic vitality of training as an organizational intervention, encouraging employees to understand the importance of team spirit and promoting teamwork. Furthermore, when mediated by coworkers’ social support, this study adds to the social support literature by demonstrating the importance of coworker support for employees who prefer teamwork.