Coworker Relationships and Informal Communication in High-Intensity Telecommuting

Abstract

Given that high-intensity telecommuters report feeling socially isolated, this study uses structuration and constructivist theories to examine the role of coworker relationships and informal communication in the context of high-intensity telecommuting. Teleworkers' organizational commitment, job satisfaction, informal communication with peers, and coworker liking were examined. Coworker liking was positively related to teleworkers' informal communication satisfaction with coworkers, and with their organizational commitment and job satisfaction. Complaining talk was negatively related to teleworkers' commitment and satisfaction; informal communication satisfaction was positively related to organizational commitment. Coworker liking moderated the effect of teleworkers' complaining talk on organizational commitment, but not job satisfaction. The buffering effect of coworker relationships is discussed as a resource for organizational members engaged in high-intensity telecommuting.

Keywords:

• Telecommuting
• Organizational Commitment
• Job Satisfaction
• Informal Communication
• Coworker Relationships

Acknowledgements

The authors thank the editor and reviewers for their thoughtful comments.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Martha J. Fay

Martha J. Fay is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Communication and Journalism at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire

Susan L. Kline

Susan L. Kline is an Associate Professor in the School of Communication at The Ohio State University