The influence of being involved in operational decisions regarding the workplace on sustainable employability: The perception of blue-collar workers - Case JCL

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2024-06-24

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en

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Companies experience problems with the availability of employees, especially blue-collar workers. For this reason, the sustainable employability (SE) of blue-collar workers is increasingly important as a result that scientific insights on how to promote the SE of blue-collar workers are needed. The aim of this study was to contribute to the scientific literature on the SE of blue-collar workers by gaining insights on the impact of involving blue-collar workers in operational decision-making on SE by examining the blue-collar workers’ perceptions. SE is defined by its core components: happiness, health and productivity. To gain new insights on this phenomenon, qualitative research was conducted in the form of a case study in the logistics sector. Data was collected by conducting semi-structured interviews with 10 Dutch blue-collar workers. The results show that according to respondents' perceptions, involving blue-collar workers in operational decisions has a positive impact on SE. The respondents believe it would have a positive impact on all three core components of SE. Being involved in operational decisions would make people feel part of the company, make them feel heard and gives them the opportunity to have influence, which would bring happiness. Furthermore, it has a positive influence on health as decisions can be influenced whereby these decisions can subsequently improve the working conditions and reduce physical strain. Additionally, being part of decision-making processes can help address issues that lead to stress, thus benefiting mental health. Finally, it influences productivity because the feeling of belonging ensures that blue-collar workers are willing to put in extra effort and are willing to do extra work. Based on the findings of this study, companies in the logistics sector are advised to involve blue-collar workers in operational decisions to promote their SE.

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Faculteit der Managementwetenschappen

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