Interpersonal conflict, workplace ostracism and turnover intentions among immigrant employees: examining the boundary condition of emotional intelligence

Purpose This research work aims to investigate the relationship between interpersonal conflict (IPC) and turnover intention (TI) through the mediating role of workplace ostracism (WO). It also examines the role of emotional intelligence (EI) as a moderator on this relationship. In addition, conservation of resource theory (COR) and social exchange theory have been used as a theoretical base for the study. Design/methodology/approach The data were collected from 255 Afghan immigrant employees working in various countries. Partial Least Square Structural Equation Modelling was used to examine the direct and indirect effects. Findings IPC had a significant effect on TI through WO. The moderated mediation index was not significant. Several conditional indirect relationships were examined in depth. Practical implications This study suggests that managers, policy-makers and entrepreneurs need to organize training programmes and cultural events to support, introduce and implement safe workplace for the migrants. It also helps the supervisors to be empathetic while listening and discussing the problems of employees earnestly. Originality/value This research examines the relationship between IPC, WO, TI and EI. It uniquely investigates moderated effect of EI on the mediation effect of IPC on TI through WO among Afghan immigrant employees.