Examining the credibility–engagement nexus: cynicism as a mediator among Indian seafarers

Purpose Based on conservation of resource theory (COR) and social exchange theory (SET), this study explores the influence of employer credibility on employee engagement through the prism of employee cynicism among seafarers from India. Design/methodology/approach A total of 413 Indian seafarers participated in this survey, which employed a snowball sampling procedure. The collected data were analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modelling using SmartPLS 3. This study used second-order constructs that were developed through a discontinuous two-stage technique and employed a reflective-formative modelling framework. Findings Employer credibility adversely affects affective, cognitive and behavioural cynicism as well as employee engagement. This study also verifies the detrimental impact of affective and behavioural cynicism on employee engagement, while cognitive cynicism does not affect engagement. A comprehensive investigation verifies the mediating role of affective and behavioural cynicism in the link between credibility and engagement among Indian sailors. Practical implications Besides adding to the literature on employer credibility and cynicism, the findings offer helpful suggestions for shipping companies to develop effective interventions to improve credibility, which foster engagement. Originality/value The study develops a new framework to understand how cynicism influences the relationship between credibility and engagement, utilizing COR and SET theories.