Hybrid work as a self-determining context: examining the psychological mechanisms behind job satisfaction

Purpose – Given the increasing prevalence of hybrid work arrangements, it is essential to investigate their relationship with employee job satisfaction. Grounded in self-determination theory, this study aimed to examine the influence of hybrid work on employee job satisfaction, while testing the mediating role of basic psychological needs (autonomy, competence and relatedness) in this relationship. Design/methodology/approach – To achieve this research goal, a three-wave design was employed, using an online survey administered to a sample of 481 employees working in a hybrid working model. Findings – Hybrid work was positively associated with employee job satisfaction through the fulfillment of the three basic psychological needs. Practical implications – For organizations seeking to implement hybrid work arrangements, these results are critical, as they highlight aspects that should be considered in workplace practices to promote employee job satisfaction. Originality/value – For learning organizations seeking to implement hybrid work arrangements, these results are critical, as they highlight aspects that should be considered in workplace practices to promote employee job satisfaction.