Labor shortage and job satisfaction – the role of workload
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.32015/JIBM.2026.18.1.7Keywords:
labor shortage; perceived labour shortage; workload; job satisfaction; employeesAbstract
This study examines the relationship between perceived labour shortage and employees' job satisfaction, with workload considered as a potential mediating mechanism. It is based on the assumption that labour shortages increase job demands and consequently affect employee well-being and satisfaction. A quantitative cross-sectional design was employed, with data collected through an online questionnaire among employees in the Republic of Croatia. The relationships between variables were analysed using regression and mediation analysis, within a theoretical framework integrating the Job Demands-Resources model, Conservation of Resources theory, and Effort-Reward Imbalance theory. The results show that perceived labour shortage is associated with increased workload and higher turnover intention, while workload does not significantly mediate the relationship between labour shortage and job satisfaction. These findings highlight the importance of organizational responses to labour shortages in managing employee workload and retention. The study contributes by treating perceived labour shortage as a distinct organizational stressor linked to employee attitudes and job outcomes.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Katarina Kulić, Željko Požega, Marko Galić, Mirjana Nedović
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